Human Rights Organizations Condemn Unprecedented High in Executions in the Kingdom

The Kingdom has exceeded its previous yearly high for the number of executions for a second year running.

At least 347 individuals have been executed so far this year, according to a London-based campaign group that records such sentences.

This figure tops the final count of 345 documented in 2024, making it what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since monitoring began."

The newest cases carried out were two Pakistani nationals sentenced on drug-related offences.

Breakdown of the Sentences

Additional individuals executed involved a reporter and two individuals who were children at the time of their reported offences linked to demonstrations.

Five of those were female. Yet, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were sentenced for non-violent drug-related offences.

Global organizations have stated that applying the capital punishment for such violations is "violates international law and principles."

More than half of those put to death were non-Saudi citizens, ensnared in what is described as a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.

"The kingdom is functioning with absolute immunity now," remarked a head of the rights organization. "It's almost flouting the global justice mechanism."

The representative further characterized coerced admissions and abuse as "widespread" within the Saudi legal framework, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Personal Accounts

Among those executed recently was a young fisherman from Egypt, detained in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was coerced into smuggling drugs.

Family members of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have spoken anonymously the "dread" they now live in.

"The single occasion of the week that I rest is on those two days because there are no death sentences carried out on those days," an individual recounted.

Cellmates have according to accounts witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged resisting violently to their death."

Wider Backdrop

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has overseen major shifts in policy, loosening some rules while at the same time silencing criticism.

Even as the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to global watchdogs.

"No price has been paid for going ahead with these executions," commented a expert focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with little backlash."

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

Calls for Action

A United Nations expert has demanded an instant halt on executions in Saudi Arabia, with the aim of eventual abolition.

The expert also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international safeguards," including access to lawyers and consular access for foreign nationals.

Notable instances have drawn special condemnation, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their reported offences and a reporter executed on terrorism and treason charges.

"Capital punishment against members of the press is a frightening blow on press freedom," said a senior UN cultural official.

In a official communication to UN concerns, Saudi authorities have asserted that the country "protects and upholds human rights" and that its laws "ban and penalize torture."

The response further stated that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "most serious crimes" and after completing all legal processes.