Rights Groups Denounce New Record in Executions in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has broken its own annual record for the number of executions for a second straight year.

A minimum of 347 persons have been executed so far this year, per data from a British campaign group that records such proceedings.

This figure tops the final count of 345 noted in 2024, making it what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The latest people put to death included two individuals from Pakistan found guilty on illegal substance violations.

Breakdown of the Cases

Additional individuals executed comprised a media professional and two young men who were children at the time of their reported protest-related crimes.

Five were female. However, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—around two-thirds—were sentenced for not involving murder substance violations.

Global organizations have said that applying the capital punishment for such offences is "incompatible with international law and principles."

More than half of those executed were individuals from other countries, implicated in what has been labeled a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.

"The authorities are acting with complete impunity now," stated a official of the monitoring group. "It's almost flouting the global justice mechanism."

The advocate further labeled coerced admissions and abuse as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."

Human Stories

Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young Egyptian fisherman, detained in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was coerced into trafficking narcotics.

Relatives of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have spoken anonymously the "terror" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I rest is on those two days because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," an individual recounted.

Fellow inmates have according to accounts seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken in protest to their death."

Wider Backdrop

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has overseen significant societal reforms, 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 "poor" according to international observers.

"There's been no cost for going ahead with these executions," noted a analyst focusing on the region. "Major events continue with little backlash."

Reports suggest families of the condemned are usually given no prior notice, not given the remains, and not informed about where they are interred.

Global Condemnation

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

The official also stressed the need for "strict adherence with international protections," including representation and diplomatic support for non-citizens.

Particular executions have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their alleged crimes and a writer executed on national security allegations.

"Capital punishment against media workers is a frightening blow on free speech," stated a leading UNESCO figure.

In a written response to UN concerns, Saudi authorities have asserted that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "prohibit and punish torture."

The letter added that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "heinous violations" and after concluding all judicial proceedings.