Q&A: Julian Assange and the law

Image source, AP

Image caption, UK authorities have said Mr Assange will be arrested if he leaves the Ecuadorean embassy

The founder of the Wikileaks website, Julian Assange, faces rape and sexual assault allegations in Sweden. In June 2012, having lost his appeal to the UK's Supreme Court against extradition to Sweden, he took refuge in the embassy of Ecuador, in London, which granted him asylum.

Image source, PA

Image caption, Supporters of Mr Assange have said he has not been formally charged with any offence.

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Mr Assange has been living inside the Ecuadorian embassy, in London, since being granted diplomatic asylum.

Image source, AP

Image caption, Mr Assange has said he would be in danger of being sent to the US, where he fears he could face the death penalty.