News

Why Saudi Arabia Executed Over 100 Foreign Nationals in 2023

perezmimzLeave a comment

Rising Execution Numbers in 2024

In 2024, Saudi Arabia executed 101 foreigners, marking the highest number of foreign nationals put to death in the kingdom’s history. This alarming figure represents nearly three times the total from 2023 and 2022, where 34 foreigners were executed each year.

Drug-Related Offences as a Key Driver

A significant portion of these executions stemmed from drug-related offences, with 92 cases linked to such crimes. Of these, 69 involved foreign nationals, highlighting their disproportionate representation. Human rights organisations argue that many foreigners are victims of systemic exploitation.

“Foreigners are the most vulnerable group,” said Taha al-Hajji, legal director of the European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR). “They are often victims of major drug dealers and subjected to violations from arrest to execution.”

Fear Among Families of Death Row Inmates

The rise in executions has left families of foreign nationals in constant fear. “Families of foreign nationals on death row are understandably terrified that their loved one will be next,” stated Jeed Basyouni from Reprieve, calling the situation an “unprecedented execution crisis.”

Who Are the Victims?

The executed foreigners hailed from a diverse range of countries, including:

  • Pakistan: 21 individuals
  • Yemen: 20 individuals
  • Syria: 14 individuals
  • Nigeria: 10 individuals
  • Egypt: 9 individuals
  • Others included nationals from Jordan, Ethiopia, India, and Afghanistan, among others.

Saudi Arabia’s Global Standing on the Death Penalty

Saudi Arabia is the world’s third-largest executor of prisoners, behind China and Iran, according to Amnesty International. This escalation contradicts statements made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who claimed in 2022 that the death penalty was largely abolished, except for murder or cases involving threats to mass safety.

Growing International Scrutiny

The kingdom faces increasing criticism from human rights groups for its heavy use of capital punishment, particularly against vulnerable foreign nationals. Many are calling for reform and greater transparency in its judicial system.

Leave a comment