Rights Groups Decry Historic Peak in Death Sentences in Saudi Arabia
The nation has broken its own annual record for the use of capital punishment for a second straight year.
A minimum of 347 persons have been put to death so far this year, according to a UK-based rights monitor that monitors such proceedings.
This figure tops the total of 345 recorded in 2024, making it what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."
The latest cases carried out were two Pakistani nationals convicted on drug-related offences.
Analysis of the Executions
Others put to death involved a media professional and two individuals who were minors at the time of their reported acts connected to dissent.
Five were female prisoners. However, per the monitoring group, the majority—approximately two-thirds—were found guilty for non-violent substance violations.
The United Nations have declared that applying the capital punishment for such violations is "contrary to international norms and standards."
More than half of those subjected to capital punishment were foreign nationals, caught up in what is described as a "crackdown on substances" within the kingdom.
"The authorities are acting with complete impunity now," stated a representative of the monitoring group. "It's almost ridiculing the global justice mechanism."
The advocate further described coerced admissions and abuse as "systemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."
Personal Accounts
Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young Egyptian fisherman, detained in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was coerced into smuggling drugs.
Family members of men on awaiting execution for drug charges have given accounts privately the "terror" they now live in.
"The sole period of the week that I find peace is on the weekend because there are no executions on those days," a family member said.
Other prisoners have reportedly seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken resisting violently to their death."
Broader Context
The paramount authority of Saudi Arabia, who became crown prince in 2017, has led profound social changes, loosening some rules while concurrently silencing criticism.
While the country has opened up in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to rights groups.
"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 condemned are usually left in the dark, not given the remains, and not told the location of graves.
International Response
A UN special rapporteur has called for an prompt suspension on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual an end to the practice.
The official also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international protections," including legal assistance and consular access for foreign nationals.
Particular executions have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their reported offences and a writer executed on national security allegations.
"Capital punishment against journalists is a frightening blow on press freedom," said a international agency head.
In a official communication to UN concerns, Saudi authorities have stated that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."
The communication further stated that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "most serious crimes" and after completing all legal processes.