Activists pursue basic legal rights for great apes

[USA Today]

LONDON — In Europe, great apes are inching toward obtaining the same legal rights as humans.

A Spanish parliamentary committee adopted resolutions last month that would give great apes, such as chimpanzees and gorillas, the right to life, freedom from arbitrary captivity and protection from torture.

If finally approved, as expected next year, Spain would be the first nation to extend human rights to mankind's closest genetic relatives.

A court case from Austria could go further, if it declares a chimp a person so the animal could have a legal guardian and funds for upkeep. The European Court of Human Rights is considering an appeal in the case of Matthew Hiasl Pan, a 28-year-old chimp from Austria.

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