Advocacy Organizations Decry Historic Peak in Capital Punishment in the Kingdom

The Kingdom has exceeded its previous yearly high for the carrying out of death sentences for a second straight year.

A minimum of 347 persons have been executed so far this year, as reported by a London-based campaign group that records such sentences.

This figure exceeds the final count of 345 recorded in 2024, marking what the group calls the "deadliest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The newest individuals to be executed involved two citizens of Pakistan convicted on illegal substance violations.

Breakdown of the Cases

Further cases this year involved a journalist and two youths who were minors at the time of their claimed acts connected to dissent.

A total of five were women. However, according to the monitoring group, the largest portion—around two-thirds—were sentenced for non-lethal narcotics charges.

International bodies have stated that applying the capital punishment for such crimes is "contrary to international norms and standards."

A majority of those executed were individuals from other countries, ensnared in what has been labeled a "crackdown on substances" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with absolute immunity now," remarked a representative of the monitoring group. "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 "harsh and indiscriminate campaign."

Human Stories

Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young fisherman from Egypt, arrested in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was pressured into trafficking narcotics.

Family members of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have given accounts privately the "dread" they now live in.

"The sole period of the week that I sleep is on the weekend because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," an individual recounted.

Cellmates have allegedly seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged in protest to their death."

Political Climate

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who became crown prince in 2017, has overseen major shifts in policy, relaxing some rules while at the same time silencing criticism.

Although the country has become more accessible in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to rights groups.

"There's been no cost for going ahead with these executions," commented a researcher focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with little backlash."

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are typically left in the dark, refused custody, and not informed about burial sites.

Global Condemnation

A UN special rapporteur has urged an prompt suspension on executions in Saudi Arabia, with the aim of eventual elimination.

The expert also stressed the need for "full compliance with international standards," including legal assistance and embassy contact for non-citizens.

Notable instances have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their reported offences and a journalist executed on national security allegations.

"The death penalty against members of the press is a frightening blow on free speech," declared a leading UNESCO figure.

In a written response to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."

The response further stated that the ultimate sentence is used exclusively for the "most serious crimes" and after concluding all court appeals.