“Singapore’s Capital Punishment Crisis: Urgent Call to Halt Unlawful Executions”

Unconscionable Pursuit of Executions in Singapore

A Cruel and Ineffective Approach

Amnesty International’s death penalty expert, Chiara Sangiorgio, recently expressed deep concern and condemnation over Singapore‘s decision to proceed with two executions for drug-related offenses. Sangiorgio argues that the pursuit of these executions is not only unconscionable but also misguided in its belief that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect on drug-related offenses or any impact on the use and availability of drugs.

Lacking Evidence

Sangiorgio rightfully questions the lack of evidence supporting the claim that the death penalty is an effective deterrent. As countries around the world are increasingly moving away from capital punishment and embracing drug policy reform, Singapore seems to be falling behind, clinging to the outdated notion that executions serve as a deterrent.

Defiance of International Safeguards

Furthermore, Sangiorgio emphasizes that these executions send a clear message: the Singaporean authorities are willing to defy international safeguards on the use of the death penalty. This defiant stance reflects a disregard for the global trend towards abolition and an erosion of respect for human rights.

Root Causes and Effective Measures

Sangiorgio suggests that Singapore should reverse its course and abandon the use of the death penalty. Instead, they should focus on offering more effective protection from drug-related harm through measures such as expanding access to health and social services for individuals who use drugs. Additionally, addressing the underlying socioeconomic causes that lead people to engage in the drug trade is crucial in curbing the widespread issue.

A Call for International Pressure

Amnesty International renews its call on governments, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) to increase their pressure on Singapore. The aim is to not only bring an end to all executions but also to ensure that drug control policies are rooted in the promotion and protection of human rights. Singapore must be held accountable for its actions and urged to align itself with the global community’s commitment to human rights reform.

The Cases at Hand

An Individual Life at Stake

One of the individuals scheduled for execution is a Singaporean Malay man convicted of trafficking approximately 50 grams of heroin. His sentencing occurred in 2018, and his execution is set for Wednesday, July 26th.

The First Execution of a Woman in 20 Years

The second case involves a Singaporean national named Saridewi Djamani. In 2018, she received the mandatory death penalty for possession of around 30 grams of heroin with the intent to traffic. If executed, she would be the first woman to be put to death in Singapore in approximately 20 years. This development is deeply troubling and raises questions about the advancement of gender equality and the treatment of women in the criminal justice system.

Global Condemnation of the Death Penalty

Both the UNODC and the INCB, two United Nations bodies entrusted with developing and monitoring drug policies, have unequivocally condemned the use of the death penalty for drug-related offenses. They have consistently urged governments worldwide to move towards abolition. It is imperative that Singapore recognizes the global consensus against the use of the death penalty and abides by international norms.

International Contrasts

Singapore‘s neighbor, Malaysia, has observed an official moratorium on executions since 2018 and has recently repealed the mandatory death penalty, including for drug-related offenses. This juxtaposition highlights the stark contrast in approaches within the region and further underscores the urgent need for Singapore to reevaluate its stance on capital punishment.

Conclusion: A Call for Urgent Action

An Unwavering Stance Against the Death Penalty

Amnesty International’s opposition to the death penalty in all cases and under any circumstances is unwavering. The executions scheduled in Singapore serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global reform. Singaporean authorities must recognize the flaws in their approach and take immediate steps to reverse course.

International Pressure and the Power of Advocacy

Governments, the UNODC, and the INCB must increase their pressure on Singapore to halt all executions and bring about meaningful change in drug control policies. The collective advocacy efforts of international organizations, human rights activists, and concerned individuals play a crucial role in persuading governments to align themselves with global abolitionist trends.

Reconsidering the Future of Capital Punishment

Singapore‘s pursuit of executions for drug-related offenses not only goes against the worldwide trend but also fails to address the root causes of drug-related harm. By focusing on effective measures, such as expanding access to healthcare and social services, and addressing socioeconomic factors, Singapore can make meaningful progress in curbing drug-related harm without resorting to the death penalty.

In the face of these imminent executions, it is essential to heed Chiara Sangiorgio’s urgent call to action. Governments and international bodies must increase their efforts to pressure Singapore and advocate for an end to the use of the death penalty. The time for change is now.

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