dw.com
Global Executions Surge in 2024, Reaching Highest Level Since 2015
The number of reported executions worldwide rose to over 1,500 in 2024, the highest since 2015, with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq accounting for 90% of the increase, driven largely by the suppression of political dissent and drug-related offenses.
- What are the primary factors contributing to the rise in executions in specific countries?
- Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq accounted for 90% of the reported executions, driving the overall increase. Iran executed at least 972 people, Saudi Arabia at least 345 (a record high), and Iraq 63.
- What are the most significant global implications of the increase in reported executions in 2024?
- Over 1,500 executions were reported globally in 2024, the highest since 2015, marking a significant increase after several years of decline. This figure, however, underrepresents the true number as many countries, notably China, do not release execution data.
- What are the long-term consequences and potential future trends regarding the use of the death penalty globally?
- The rise in executions is alarming, with a significant portion linked to suppressing political dissent, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Iran. The use of the death penalty for drug-related offenses also disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, despite lacking evidence of its effectiveness in crime reduction.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline (not provided, but inferred from the text) and the opening paragraph emphasize the increase in executions, potentially alarming readers. The article focuses on the increase and the high number of executions in Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, before discussing the decrease in the number of countries using the death penalty. This sequencing prioritizes the negative aspects of the death penalty over the positive trend of abolition in some countries.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language such as "likvidacije" (liquidations), "egzekucije" (executions), and "pogubljenja" (executions), which are emotionally charged terms. While accurate, they contribute to a negative tone. Using more neutral terms like "death sentences carried out" could reduce the emotional impact. The phrase "vodeći egzekutor" (leading executioner) for China is also highly charged.
Bias by Omission
The report focuses heavily on Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and China, mentioning other countries only briefly. While acknowledging that many countries don't release data, the lack of detailed information on other nations' use of the death penalty could lead to an incomplete global picture. The omission of specific examples beyond these four countries limits the scope of the analysis and the ability to form a truly comprehensive understanding of global trends.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a dichotomy between countries abolishing the death penalty and those still using it, but overlooks the complexities of legal systems and varying degrees of implementation (e.g., Malaysia's moratorium). It doesn't explore nuances such as the differing types of crimes punishable by death or the varying levels of due process.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant increase in executions globally, particularly in Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Many of these executions are linked to political dissent, showcasing a failure of justice systems to uphold human rights and due process. The use of the death penalty for drug-related offenses also demonstrates a flawed approach to crime reduction, neglecting the social and economic factors that contribute to drug use and trafficking. The continued use of the death penalty in several countries contradicts international human rights standards and undermines efforts towards just and equitable societies.