Saudi Arabia’s Record Executions in 2024

Saudi Arabia witnessed rise in executions, reaching an unprecedented total of 101 foreigners. This number is nearly three times greater than the 34 executions recorded in both 2022 and 2023. The surge in the death penalty has raised alarms among human rights organisations, who argue that this escalation reflects a troubling trend in the kingdom’s justice system.

Context of Executions

The majority of executions this year were driven by drug-related offences. Out of the 92 executions linked to drugs, 69 involved foreign nationals. This alarming statistic marks the vulnerability of foreigners within the Saudi legal system. Many are perceived as victims of larger drug trafficking networks, often facing severe legal repercussions without adequate representation.

Human Rights Concerns

Human rights organisations, including the European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR), have voiced strong criticisms regarding these executions. Taha al-Hajji, the legal director of ESOHR, noted that foreign nationals are often subjected to violations from arrest to execution. The situation has created a climate of fear among families of those on death row, as they live in constant dread of losing their loved ones.

National and International Reactions

The spike in executions has attracted international scrutiny. Amnesty International has labelled Saudi Arabia as the third-largest executor globally, trailing only China and Iran. This reputation stands in stark contrast to claims made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2022, where he suggested the kingdom had limited the use of the death penalty.

Demographics of Executed Foreigners

The executed individuals came from various countries, with Pakistan, Yemen, and Syria being the most represented. Specifically, 21 were from Pakistan, 20 from Yemen, and 14 from Syria. Other nationalities included Nigerians, Egyptians, Jordanians, and Ethiopians. This diverse demographic puts stress on the international implications of Saudi Arabia’s legal practices.

Future Implications

As the number of executions continues to rise, the potential for increased diplomatic tensions grows. Countries with nationals on death row may face pressure to intervene. Furthermore, the ongoing human rights violations could lead to intensified calls for reform within the Saudi legal system.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of Saudi Arabia’s use of the death penalty on international human rights standards.
2. What are the socio-political factors contributing to the rise in drug-related executions in Saudi Arabia? Discuss.
3. Explain the role of international organisations in addressing human rights violations in authoritarian regimes like Saudi Arabia.
4. Comment on the impact of demographic diversity among executed foreigners on Saudi Arabia’s international relations.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of Saudi Arabia’s use of the death penalty on international human rights standards.

1. Saudi Arabia’s execution rate, particularly of foreigners, raises concerns about adherence to international human rights norms, which advocate for the abolition of the death penalty.
2. The important number of executions contradicts global movements toward reducing capital punishment, impacting Saudi Arabia’s international reputation.
3. Human rights organisations argue that the kingdom’s practices violate fundamental rights, including the right to fair trial and protection from inhumane treatment.
4. Increased scrutiny from international bodies may lead to diplomatic consequences, affecting Saudi Arabia’s relationships with human rights-focused nations.
5. The situation may prompt calls for reform within Saudi Arabia, influencing other authoritarian regimes regarding their treatment of prisoners and use of capital punishment.

2. What are the socio-political factors contributing to the rise in drug-related executions in Saudi Arabia? Discuss.

1. The rise in drug-related executions is linked to Saudi Arabia’s stringent anti-drug laws and a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking and consumption.
2. Socio-economic issues, including high unemployment and poverty, contribute to increased drug trafficking, making individuals vulnerable to severe penalties.
3. The influence of powerful drug cartels often leads to foreign nationals being used as scapegoats in the drug trade, resulting in higher execution rates among them.
4. Political factors, such as maintaining a strong stance against crime to boost the government’s image, drive the aggressive enforcement of drug laws.
5. Moreover, the lack of adequate legal representation and fair trials for accused individuals exacerbates the situation, leading to wrongful convictions and executions.

3. Explain the role of international organisations in addressing human rights violations in authoritarian regimes like Saudi Arabia.

1. International organisations, such as Amnesty International and the European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights, monitor and report on human rights abuses, raising global awareness.
2. They advocate for the protection of human rights through lobbying, pressuring governments and international bodies to take action against violators.
3. These organisations provide support to victims and their families, helping them navigate legal systems and seek justice.
4. They also facilitate dialogue between governments and civil society, promoting reforms in human rights policies and practices.
5. By documenting violations, they create a record that can be used in international courts or by other bodies to hold regimes accountable.

4. Comment on the impact of demographic diversity among executed foreigners on Saudi Arabia’s international relations.

1. The execution of individuals from diverse national backgrounds strains Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic relations with their home countries, leading to potential diplomatic protests.
2. Countries with nationals executed may demand explanations or seek to intervene, creating tensions and complicating bilateral relations.
3. The demographic representation marks systemic issues within Saudi Arabia’s justice system, prompting international calls for reform and accountability.
4. It raises concerns among foreign governments about the safety of their citizens in Saudi Arabia, impacting tourism and expatriate communities.
5. The situation can lead to increased scrutiny from international human rights organisations, further isolating Saudi Arabia on the global stage.