Advocacy Organizations Denounce Historic Peak in Capital Punishment in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has surpassed its own annual record for the carrying out of death sentences for a second consecutive year.

At least 347 individuals have been put to death so far this year, per data from a British advocacy organization that records such sentences.

This figure tops the final count of 345 recorded in 2024, marking what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The newest cases carried out included two Pakistani nationals convicted on charges related to narcotics.

Analysis of the Sentences

Further cases this year involved a reporter and two individuals who were minors at the time of their reported acts connected to dissent.

A total of five were female prisoners. But, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—about two-thirds—were convicted for not involving murder substance violations.

Global organizations have declared that applying the capital punishment for such crimes is "contrary to international human rights standards."

A majority of those subjected to capital punishment were individuals from other countries, ensnared in what has been labeled a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.

"The kingdom is functioning with complete impunity now," remarked a official of the campaign. "It's almost ridiculing the international rights framework."

The advocate further characterized torture and forced confessions as "endemic" within the Saudi legal framework, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."

Personal Accounts

Among those put to death this week was a young national of Egypt, arrested in 2021. He reportedly claimed he was forced into smuggling drugs.

Family members of men on death row for drug charges have given accounts privately the "fear" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I find peace is on those two days because there are no executions on those days," one relative stated.

Other prisoners have according to accounts seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "led resisting violently to their death."

Broader Context

The paramount authority of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has led profound social changes, relaxing some restrictions while at the same time suppressing opposition.

While the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "poor" according to global watchdogs.

"There's been no cost for proceeding with these executions," noted a expert focusing on the region. "International gatherings continue with no repercussions."

Reports suggest families of the executed are typically left in the dark, denied the bodies, and not told the location of graves.

International Response

A United Nations expert has urged an instant halt on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual abolition.

The expert also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international safeguards," including legal assistance and embassy contact for non-citizens.

Notable instances have drawn special condemnation, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their charged acts and a reporter executed on claims of disloyalty.

"The death penalty against media workers is a chilling attack on press freedom," stated a international agency head.

In a official communication to international queries, Saudi authorities have asserted that the country "safeguards human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."

The letter added that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "gravest offences" and after exhausting all judicial proceedings.