Overview
WikiLeaks is a nonprofit organization known for its role in publishing secretive and classified information, often provided by anonymous sources, whistle blowers, and governmental insiders. The organization was launched in December 2006 by its founder Julian Assange and quickly became a prominent player in global media due to its release of a vast array of notable documents, which have spurred significant political and social debates.
Activities and Impact
WikiLeaks has published numerous high-profile document leaks that have had significant global impacts. Some of these include:
- Collateral Murder (2010): Video showing a U.S. Apache helicopter attacking individuals in Baghdad, including journalists.
- Cablegate (2010): Release of over 250,000 U.S. diplomatic cables, shedding light on U.S. foreign relations and international affairs.
- Guantanamo files (2011): Detailed documents on detainees at the Guantanamo Bay detention camp.
- DNC Email Leak (2016): Publication of emails from the Democratic National Committee, influencing the U.S. presidential election.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main goal of WikiLeaks?
The main goal of WikiLeaks is to increase transparency and accountability in governments and organizations by publishing secretive and classified information.
How does WikiLeaks obtain its documents?
WikiLeaks receives documents through various sources, including whistle blowers, anonymous tips, and internal leaks from government and corporate insiders.
Is WikiLeaks a media organization?
While WikiLeaks operates as a nonprofit organization, it functions similarly to a media outlet by publishing newsworthy documents and information.
How does WikiLeaks ensure the authenticity of its documents?
WikiLeaks employs a network of experts to verify the authenticity of documents before publication, though it has faced criticism for the potential implications of the released information.
What legal challenges has WikiLeaks faced?
WikiLeaks and its key figures, particularly Julian Assange, have faced legal challenges including allegations of espionage, hacking, and other charges by various governments.
Related Terms
- Whistleblower: An individual who exposes information or activity deemed illicit, unethical, or incorrect within an organization.
- Transparency: The quality of being easily seen through or detected, often applied to the context of organizations or government functioning openly.
- Espionage: The practice of spying or using spies to obtain secret or confidential information.
- Julian Assange: The founder of WikiLeaks, known for his controversial role in the organization’s activities.
- Information Leak: The release of confidential information to the public without authorization.
Additional Resources
Online References
- WikiLeaks Official Website: wikileaks.org
- Electronic Frontier Foundation on Whistleblowers: eff.org
- The Intercept on WikiLeaks: theintercept.com
Suggested Books
- “WikiLeaks: Inside Julian Assange’s War on Secrecy” by David Leigh and Luke Harding
- “The WikiLeaks Files: The World According to US Empire” edited by Julian Assange
- “Cypherpunks: Freedom and the Future of the Internet” by Julian Assange, Jacob Appelbaum, Andy Müller-Maguhn, and Jérémie Zimmermann
Fundamentals of WikiLeaks: International Journalism and Law Basics Quiz
Thank you for learning about WikiLeaks and engaging with our quiz to challenge your understanding of this controversial organization and its global impact!
