The number of executed death sentences in the world has increased dramatically. This was stated by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, at a meeting of the Human Rights Council. informs UN press office.
“According to the latest UN data, 1,153 death sentences were carried out in 16 countries in 2024, which is 31% more than the previous year and the highest figure in the last eight years.” – the message says.
Turk emphasized that the death penalty has been applied in recent years, in particular, in the USA, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Somalia. At the same time, according to him, there are no reliable statistical data from China.
“A number of countries claim that this topic is purely within the zone of their national sovereignty, however, in my opinion, the death penalty is incompatible with respect for human dignity and the right to life.”, – said the High Commissioner.
According to the UN, more than 40% of death sentences in the world are handed down for drug-related crimes. This is the highest indicator since 2016.
“As of today, 113 countries have completely abandoned the death penalty. Their list includes Zimbabwe, where President Emmerson Mnangagwa approved a law to end the execution of death sentences at the end of 2024, as well as 26 other African countries.” – stated in the UN release.
