The Islamic kingdom of Saudi Arabia has recently made headlines by abolishing flogging and the death sentence for minors as forms of punishment. The kingdom is known for its lack of a codified system of law, relying instead on individual judges’ interpretations of Shariah or Islamic law to determine sentences.
Abolition of Flogging as Punishment
Until recently, Saudi Arabia employed flogging as mandatory corporal punishment, with offenders potentially receiving hundreds of lashes. Courts ordered this form of punishment for a myriad of infractions, including murder, disrupting peace, homosexuality, alcohol possession or consumption, adultery, and insulting Islam.
The End of Death Sentence for Minors
In another significant move, the kingdom announced the abolition of the death sentence for crimes committed by minors. From now on, individuals guilty of such offenses will face a maximum of ten years in a juvenile detention facility. However, an exception may be made for minors who commit terrorism-related crimes.
The previous practice of capital punishment for crimes committed by under-18s was contravening the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Despite these reforms, Saudi Arabia continues to execute public executions and employ other forms of corporal punishments like amputations for theft – often facing considerable criticism for these practices.
Amnesty International identifies Saudi Arabia as one of the world’s leading executioners, outperformed only by Iran and China. The organization’s most recent report indicates that 184 executions occurred in the kingdom in 2019. The country also faces widespread criticism for ongoing repression of political dissenters and activists.
The Specialised Criminal Court (SCC)
Established in 2008 post a terrorist attack claimed by al-Qaeda, the SCC initially focused on trials of alleged violent extremists. However, its jurisdiction expanded over time to cover political dissidents, religious minorities, and human rights activists.
Reforms Underway in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has initiated an array of social and economic reforms under the ‘Saudi Vision 2030’. The primary aim is to modernize the country, diversify its oil-reliant economy, develop public services, and align its practices with international human rights standards.
Earlier Reforms
In 2018, Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on women drivers, marking a significant step for women’s rights. Prior to this, the law required women to have a male guardian and seek their consent for almost every activity – making Saudi Arabia the only country globally forbidding women from driving.
Last year, the kingdom made further amendments relating to women’s rights. Women over the age of 21 can now receive passports and travel abroad without requiring a male guardian’s approval. Additionally, they can register marriages, divorces, or the births of their children and get family documents. They can also serve as the legal guardians of their children, a right which was previously exclusive to men.
