Human Rights Organizations Condemn Unprecedented High in Executions in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom has broken its prior execution tally for the use of capital punishment for a second straight year.
At least 347 individuals have been put to death so far this year, according to a UK-based rights monitor that records such proceedings.
This figure tops the total of 345 recorded in 2024, representing what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since records started."
The most recent people put to death included two citizens of Pakistan found guilty on illegal substance violations.
Analysis of the Executions
Further cases this year involved a journalist and two individuals who were minors at the time of their alleged protest-related crimes.
Five were female prisoners. Yet, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were convicted for non-violent substance violations.
The United Nations have said that applying the ultimate sentence for such crimes is "contrary to international norms and standards."
A majority of those executed were individuals from other countries, caught up in what is described as a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.
"The authorities are acting with complete impunity now," remarked a head of the rights organization. "It's almost ridiculing the human rights system."
The advocate further labeled extracted statements through mistreatment as "endemic" within the Saudi judicial process, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."
Personal Accounts
Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young fisherman from Egypt, arrested in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was forced into trafficking narcotics.
Relatives of men on death row for drug charges have described the "fear" they now live in.
"The only time of the week that I find peace is on Friday and Saturday because there are no executions on those days," a family member said.
Fellow inmates have according to accounts witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged resisting violently to their death."
Political Climate
The paramount authority of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has presided over major shifts in policy, relaxing some limitations while simultaneously suppressing opposition.
Even as the country has become more accessible in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "poor" according to global watchdogs.
"There have been no consequences for proceeding with these executions," commented a researcher focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with no repercussions."
Allegations suggest families of the condemned are often left in the dark, denied the bodies, and not informed about burial sites.
International Response
A UN special rapporteur has demanded an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual abolition.
The expert also stressed the need for "full compliance with international protections," including legal assistance and consular access for non-citizens.
Particular executions have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were under the age of majority at the time of their charged acts and a reporter executed on national security allegations.
"Executions against media workers is a chilling attack on freedom of expression," stated a senior UN cultural official.
In a written response to international queries, Saudi authorities have asserted that the country "safeguards human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."
The letter continued that the ultimate sentence is imposed only for the "gravest offences" and after completing all legal processes.
