Unprecedented Surge in Executions
Saudi Arabia carried out 356 executions in 2025, establishing a new record for the highest number of individuals put to death in the kingdom within a single year. This figure surpasses the previous record of 338 executions reported in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of escalating capital punishment in the country.
A significant portion of these executions, specifically 243 individuals, were for drug-related offenses. Analysts largely attribute this surge to Riyadh's intensified 'war on drugs,' a campaign launched in recent years. Many of those executed for drug-related crimes were foreign nationals, disproportionately affected by the campaign.
International Outcry from Human Rights Organizations
The record number of executions has elicited strong condemnation from various international human rights organizations. Groups such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Reprieve, and the European Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR) have voiced grave concerns.
Critics highlight that many of these executions followed deeply flawed trials, with allegations of confessions obtained under torture and a lack of due process. Human rights experts emphasize that the death penalty is being applied for non-lethal crimes, particularly drug offenses, which they argue violates international human rights law. Kristine Beckerle, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International, described the trend as 'a truly horrifying rise, with foreign nationals being put to death at a startling rate for crimes that should never carry the death penalty.'
Contradiction with Modernization Efforts
The escalating use of the death penalty stands in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia's efforts to project a modern and reformist image under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 agenda. Activists argue that the continued embrace of capital punishment undermines the kingdom's push to diversify its oil-dependent economy through tourism and global sporting events.
Despite previous pledges to limit the use of the death penalty, including for juvenile offenders and drug-related crimes, human rights groups note a reversal of these commitments. The execution of individuals for offenses committed as minors and the resumption of capital punishment for drug offenses after a moratorium have been particularly criticized.
Ongoing International Scrutiny
The record number of executions in 2025 ensures continued international scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record. Organizations continue to call for an immediate halt to executions and a moratorium on the death penalty, with a view towards its eventual abolition.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
Flawed trials and lack of due process? This isn't justice, it's state-sponsored murder.
Habibi
Human rights are universal, not selective. This is a gross violation.
Muchacha
While governments do have a responsibility to combat drug trafficking, the sheer scale of these executions and the concerns over fair trials are deeply troubling. There must be a more humane approach.
Bella Ciao
Saudi Arabia aims to project an image of reform and openness, yet these human rights violations create a significant contradiction. They must align their domestic policies with their international aspirations for true progress.
Comandante
Drugs ruin lives. This strict stance shows they're serious about protecting their citizens.