Picture courtesy of BBC

 

Saudi Arabia has recorded its highest annual number of executions for the second consecutive year, with 347 executed so far, surpassing last year's total of 345. The UK-based Reprieve group has labelled 2025 as the "bloodiest year" in the kingdom's execution history. The majority of those executed were for non-lethal drug offences, raising international concerns over human rights practices.

 

Reprieve reports that two Pakistani nationals were among the most recent executions for drug-related charges, highlighting a wider crackdown on perceived drug crimes. This surge in executions comes after Saudi Arabia ended an unofficial moratorium on drug-related executions in late 2022, which the UN human rights office regrets deeply. The rigorous application of capital punishment has drawn sharp criticism, especially since many executed were foreign nationals.

 

Saudi officials have not responded to critiques or commented on this increase. Observers like Reprieve's Jeed Basyouni describe the execution trend as making a "mockery" of international human rights frameworks, citing systemic torture and forced confessions within Saudi courts. Witnesses recount harrowing experiences of executions, which Basyouni argues send a stern warning against dissent and other social issues.

 

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's tenure since 2017 has seen profound social changes alongside a contentious human rights record. While social restrictions have eased, and economic diversification has been a priority, the execution rate remains alarmingly high. Human Rights Watch highlights the severity of this issue, noting that the international community continues engaging with the kingdom despite these practices.

 

The UN's special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings urges an immediate execution moratorium in Saudi Arabia, seeking full adherence to international legal standards and better treatment for those on death row. As the year progresses, the focus remains on whether Saudi Arabia will respond to these growing global pressures and calls for reform.

 

 

Key Takeaways:

• Saudi Arabia executes 347 people in 2025, a new annual record.
• Majority executed for non-lethal drug offences; backlash from rights groups.
• Global pressure mounts for Saudi Arabia to halt and reassess its practices.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-22

 

 

 

<deleted>hole countries do things that civilized countries look down on. 

The highest number of executions in the U.S. in recent history was 48 in 2025. An also-ran in comparison.

Just don't do drugs there, no problem. They are not dealing with angels.