Advocacy Organizations Decry Historic Peak in Capital Punishment in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has surpassed its own annual record for the use of capital punishment for a second consecutive year.

At least 347 people have been put to death so far this year, according to a London-based campaign group that tracks such sentences.

This figure tops the final count of 345 documented in 2024, representing what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The newest individuals to be executed involved two Pakistani nationals found guilty on drug-related offences.

Analysis of the Sentences

Others put to death include a media professional and two young men who were underage at the time of their alleged acts connected to dissent.

Five were women. Yet, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—around two-thirds—were found guilty for not involving murder substance violations.

Global organizations have said that applying the capital punishment for such violations is "violates international norms and standards."

More than half of those subjected to capital punishment were foreign nationals, caught up in what appears to be a "crackdown on substances" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with total disregard now," remarked a head of the monitoring group. "It's almost making a mockery of the international rights framework."

The official further described coerced admissions and abuse as "widespread" within the Saudi judicial process, calling it a "harsh and indiscriminate campaign."

Human Stories

Among those executed recently was a young national of Egypt, detained in 2021. He reportedly claimed he was forced into carrying illegal substances.

Relatives of men on awaiting execution for drug charges have given accounts privately the "terror" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I find peace is on those two days because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," a family member said.

Other prisoners have according to accounts observed individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken in protest to their death."

Political Climate

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has overseen profound social changes, relaxing some limitations while at the same time suppressing opposition.

Although the country has opened up in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to global watchdogs.

"No price has been paid for going ahead with these executions," noted a analyst focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with minimal fallout."

Reports suggest families of the executed are often given no prior notice, refused custody, and not told where they are interred.

Calls for Action

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

The expert also stressed the need for "full compliance with international standards," including representation and consular access for non-citizens.

Notable instances have drawn particular ire, 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 journalists is a deeply concerning assault on freedom of expression," stated a international agency head.

In a formal letter to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have stated that the country "protects and upholds human rights" and that its laws "ban and penalize torture."

The response continued that the ultimate sentence is used exclusively for the "heinous violations" and after completing all legal processes.