This report reviews the recent history of human rights abuses and the obstacles and the failures of medical personnel to contribute to the exposure of these abuses and the obstacles that may prevent them from doing so. Information is given about recent attempts to discipline doctors for their involvement in human rights violations in the 1970s during the period of military rule. The report concludes that medical professionals can make a significant contribution to the defence of human rights in Brazil provided certain reforms are made to strengthen professional independence and accountability.
