BERLIN (KAAB TV) – The German Federal Government Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance, Luise Amtsberg, has reiterated Germany’s firm opposition to the death penalty under all circumstances.
The country continues to advocate globally for its abolition, including in nations with close ties like Japan and the United States.
Amtsberg highlighted disturbing trends in 2023, pointing out that Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Somalia carried out the highest number of executions, according to public statistics.
In Iran, the surge in executions has been particularly alarming, with authorities using the death penalty as a tool for political repression against demonstrators, dissidents, and ethnic minorities.
Myanmar, which resumed executions in 2022 after more than 30 years, has also come under scrutiny.
Despite Germany providing foreign assistance to some of these nations, its stance against the death penalty remains unequivocal.
“Today, on the World Day Against the Death Penalty, we remember those around the globe who have been sentenced to death and executed. Many face this fate due to their political beliefs, human rights activism, sexual orientation, or ethnic and religious backgrounds,” Amtsberg said.
Amtsberg further emphasized the scale of the issue: “At least 1,150 death sentences were carried out in 2023 alone. Given that countries like China, Vietnam, and North Korea do not disclose execution statistics, the real number is likely much higher.”
Germany views the death penalty as a cruel and inhumane practice incompatible with human dignity.
So far, 144 countries have either abolished the death penalty or implemented moratoriums.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all civil society activists who tirelessly campaign for the global abolition of the death penalty. We will continue to work together toward this goal,” Amtsberg concluded.