Current Context: Amnesty International’s “Death Sentences and Executions 2024” report reveals a surge in global executions, reaching 1,518 in 2024, a 32% increase from 2023. Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia accounted for 91% of executions, largely targeting protesters and minorities.

Key Facts:

• Total Executions: 1,518 (32% rise).
• Top Executing Countries:
• Iran: 972 executions.
• Saudi Arabia: 345 executions.
• Iraq: 63 executions (increase from 16).
• Targeted Groups: Executions used against protestors and minorities, including participants of Iran’s Women, Life, Freedom protests and Saudi Arabia’s Shiite minority.
• Drug-Related Executions: Over 40% of executions linked to drug offences, violating international law.

Global Trends:

• Only 15 countries executed in
• 145 countries abolished the death penalty.
• Zimbabwe abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes.