Jailing of scientists raises fears of repression in Brazil

[babsbunny]

http://news.independent.co.uk/world/americas/article2903540.ece

By Leonard Doyle in Washington
Published: 29 August 2007
In 2000, Time magazine elected Marc van Roosmalen, a Dutch primatologist, as one of the "Heroes of the Planet" for his work in the Amazon.

But even though his research has led to the discovery of five species of monkey as well as a new primate genus, earlier this year he was arrested and sentenced to almost 16 years in jail. He is now out on bail, pending an appeal, but the impact on scientific research has been dramatic.

Dr van Roosmalen's crime was keeping orphaned monkeys (whose parents were slain by hunters) in a refuge at his home in the Amazon without the appropriate permits.

Field research requires approval from up to five government agencies in Brazil. And it can take up to two years to get it.