Human rights

The American Assn for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) sent a letter to the US State Dept. complaining of human rights abuses in the treatment of Wen Ho Lee that might deter foreign students from studying in the U.S. Incensed by a presidential decree to conduct more routine polygraphs in defense laboratories, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) initiated a study to investigate the validity of polygraphs. Similarly intrusive is the 1996 act of US Congress to develop an Internet-based system to track foreign students working on projects considered sensitive. The AAAS is working on the repeal of the entire system.

The importance of scientists’ rights to travel was raised with emphasis on relations with Cuba. AAAS representatives had visited Cuba with the hope of improving exchange. A survey can be found at http://shr.aaas.org/rtt.