Intelligence agencies keep things secret because they often violate the rule of law or of good behavior.

In this quote, Julian Assange suggests that intelligence agencies often engage in activities that may violate legal or ethical standards, which is why they operate in secrecy. Assange argues that the need to keep things secret stems from the potential wrongdoing or misconduct that might occur within these agencies. By hiding information from the public, these agencies avoid accountability for actions that might be deemed unlawful or unethical, especially when those actions go against established laws or principles of good behavior.

Assange’s statement critiques the lack of transparency and oversight in intelligence operations. He believes that the secrecy surrounding intelligence work is not just about protecting national security, but also about shielding the agencies from scrutiny regarding questionable practices. This perspective is central to Assange’s activism and his work with WikiLeaks, where he exposed classified government documents to promote accountability and transparency.

The quote also touches on broader themes of government secrecy, accountability, and the tension between security and individual rights. Assange has long argued that unchecked power within intelligence agencies can lead to abuses, and that the public has a right to know what is being done in their name. His view aligns with his broader philosophy that a free society depends on the flow of information and that secrecy often serves to protect those in power rather than the people.

Originating from Assange’s role as a journalist and activist in the realm of whistleblowing, the quote reflects his ongoing criticism of government secrecy and intelligence practices. Assange has been a vocal critic of the ways in which governments use secrecy to evade scrutiny and suppress information that might undermine their actions. This quote encapsulates his belief in the need for transparency and the public’s right to be informed about the actions of intelligence agencies.