Human Rights Organizations Denounce Unprecedented High in Capital Punishment in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom has exceeded its own annual record for the use of capital punishment for a second straight year.
At least 347 individuals have been subjected to capital punishment so far this year, per data from a UK-based rights monitor that records such sentences.
This figure tops the final count of 345 documented in 2024, making it what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."
The newest people put to death involved two Pakistani nationals sentenced on drug-related offences.
Breakdown of the Executions
Others put to death comprised a journalist and two youths who were minors at the time of their alleged offences linked to demonstrations.
Five were female prisoners. Yet, as stated by the monitoring group, the majority—approximately two-thirds—were found guilty for not involving murder drug-related offences.
International bodies have stated that applying the ultimate sentence for such offences is "violates international human rights standards."
Over 50% of those executed were foreign nationals, ensnared in what is described as a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.
"The authorities are acting with total disregard now," remarked a representative of the rights organization. "It's almost making a mockery of the human rights system."
The representative further labeled coerced admissions and abuse as "systemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."
Human Stories
Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young Egyptian fisherman, arrested in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was pressured into carrying illegal substances.
Relatives of men on death row for drug charges have spoken anonymously the "terror" they now live in.
"The sole period of the week that I sleep is on those two days because there are no executions on those days," an individual recounted.
Fellow inmates have according to accounts observed individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken resisting violently to their death."
Political Climate
The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who became crown prince in 2017, has led major shifts in policy, loosening some restrictions while at the same time silencing criticism.
Even as the country has become more accessible in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "poor" according to global watchdogs.
"There's been no cost for going ahead with these executions," said a researcher focusing on the region. "International gatherings continue with no repercussions."
Allegations suggest families of the condemned are usually left in the dark, not given the remains, and left unaware of burial sites.
Global Condemnation
A global human rights official has demanded an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, with the aim of eventual an end to the practice.
The rapporteur also stressed the need for "full compliance with international safeguards," including legal assistance and consular access for non-citizens.
Notable instances have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their charged acts and a writer executed on claims of disloyalty.
"Capital punishment against journalists is a frightening blow on press freedom," declared a leading UNESCO figure.
In a written response to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "prohibit and punish torture."
The letter continued that the ultimate sentence is imposed only for the "most serious crimes" and after completing all court appeals.
