Argentine zoo improves space for orangutan designated as "non-human person"

[Judi Lynn]

2. From December: Zoo orangutan, Sandra, entitled to legal rights, Argentine court rules, clearing way

Zoo orangutan, Sandra, entitled to legal rights, Argentine court rules, clearing way for possible release
Almudena Calatrava, The Associated Press | December 22, 2014



BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — An orangutan that has lived 20 years at the Buenos Aires zoo is entitled to some legal rights enjoyed by humans, an Argentine court has ruled, a decision the ape’s attorney called unprecedented and a ticket to greater freedom.

The ruling comes a month after a local animal rights group filed a habeas corpus writ in favour of Sandra, who was born in Germany but has lived in captivity in Buenos Aires most of her life.

“Following a dynamic … judicial interpretation, it is necessary to recognize that the animal is subject to rights, and should be protected,” said the Dec. 18 ruling, published Monday by the official judicial news agency.

Andres Gil Dominguez, who represented the orangutan, said the “unprecedented” ruling paves the way for the habeas corpus rights to be accepted by the courts and for Sandra to be released at a sanctuary.



“It sets a precedent that changes the paradigm of animal guardianship and will impact their rights. … It will lead to a lot of discussions,” Gil Dominguez told The Associated Press.

More:
http://news.nationalpost.com/news/zoo-orangutan-sandra-entitled-to-legal-rights-argentine-court-rules-clearing-way-for-possible-release