Saudi Arabia has executed more than 100 foreign nationals so far in 2024, according to human rights organizations and official reports. The executions, primarily carried out by beheading, underscore the kingdom’s stringent adherence to its interpretation of Islamic law.
Among those executed were individuals from countries such as Pakistan, Indonesia, and Ethiopia, many of whom had been convicted of drug-related offenses. Human rights advocates argue that a significant number of these cases involved allegations of unfair trials, forced confessions, and limited access to legal representation.
“Many of these individuals came from impoverished backgrounds and were likely exploited by traffickers,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. “Their cases highlight systemic issues in the justice system that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.”
Saudi Arabia has one of the highest execution rates globally. Despite international condemnation, the kingdom defends its practices as being in accordance with Sharia law and as a deterrent against serious crimes.
The executions come at a time when Saudi Arabia is seeking to position itself as a global hub for tourism, investment, and entertainment under its Vision 2030 reform plan. Critics argue that the country’s human rights record, including its use of the death penalty, undermines its efforts to modernize and attract foreign partnerships.
Calls for a moratorium on the death penalty continue to grow, with organizations urging Saudi authorities to align their judicial practices with international human rights standards.
Comments are closed.