Saudi Arabia's Execution Rate Hits 30-Year High in 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has recently made headlines for executing a staggering 198 individuals in 2024, marking the highest number of executions in over 30 years. This alarming figure comes after three executions were announced on a Saturday, pushing the total for the year to this unprecedented level. According to reports, KSA ranks third in the world for the number of executions, following China and Iran, as highlighted by Amnesty International.

Historically, the number of executions in Saudi Arabia has fluctuated, with previous highs recorded at 196 in 2022 and 192 in 1995. Amnesty International has been tracking these figures since 1990, and the latest data indicates a troubling trend. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) confirmed the recent executions, citing a statement from the interior ministry. In comparison, the country executed 170 individuals in 2023, showcasing a significant increase in the use of capital punishment.

Human rights organizations have consistently criticized Saudi Arabia for its heavy reliance on the death penalty, arguing that it contradicts the kingdom's attempts to project a modern image on the global stage. Jeed Basyouni, an advocate against the death penalty, stated that the new record reflects a departure from any pretenses of reform regarding capital punishment. He emphasized that promises made in recent years have not only failed to materialize but have also been reversed.

This year, among those executed, 32 individuals were convicted of terrorism-related offenses, while 52 were found guilty of drug-related crimes. The previous record of 196 executions in 2022 was noted in a letter from the Saudi human rights commission, although different sources reported varying numbers for that year.

Saudi Arabia's history with executions is not new. In 1980, for instance, 63 people were beheaded following a significant event involving Islamist militants. The largest mass execution occurred in March 2022, when 81 individuals were executed in a single day. The Saudi government has defended its use of the death penalty, claiming it is essential for maintaining public order and that sentences are only carried out after all legal avenues have been exhausted.

However, the high number of executions raises questions about the kingdom's commitment to reform. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman previously stated that the death penalty had been largely eliminated, except in cases of murder or threats to public safety. Yet, the current situation suggests a stark contradiction to these claims.

Experts have noted that Western pressure on Saudi Arabia regarding human rights issues has diminished significantly, allowing the kingdom to act with greater freedom. Duaa Dhaini, a researcher focused on human rights, pointed out that the motivations behind the increase in executions are unclear. She speculated that these actions might serve to clear out prisons or send a message of intimidation, whether to lawbreakers or political opponents.

As the number of executions continues to rise, particularly among drug offenders, the international community remains concerned. The United Nations has previously condemned the death penalty for drug-related crimes, urging Saudi authorities to halt such practices. In September, a coalition of 31 Arab and international human rights organizations issued a statement denouncing the sharp increase in executions, especially those targeting drug offenders.

The surge in executions in Saudi Arabia raises critical questions about the balance between maintaining public order and upholding human rights. As the world watches, it is essential for the kingdom to reflect on its practices and consider the implications of its actions on its international standing and the lives of its citizens. The ongoing debate surrounding the death penalty in Saudi Arabia is not just a matter of law; it is a reflection of the values and principles that govern society.