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Amnesty International Calls for Death Penalty Reform in Singapore
A Tragic Spotlight on Singapore‘s Lack of Reform
In response to the recent execution of a woman in Singapore, Amnesty International’s death penalty expert, Chiara Sangiorgio, has criticized the country’s lack of death penalty reform. Sangiorgio argues that the executions of two individuals, including the first known execution of a woman in two decades, highlight Singapore‘s continued use of the death penalty for drug-related crimes, despite global trends towards abolition. She emphasizes that Singapore‘s approach violates international human rights law and standards, calling on the government to wake up and join the majority of countries that have abolished the death penalty.
Raising Pressure for Change
Amnesty International’s call for death penalty reform in Singapore is part of a broader movement against capital punishment. Sangiorgio points to Ghana as a recent example of a country moving towards abolition, joining the two-thirds of countries worldwide that have already abolished the death penalty in law or practice. The organization urges governments, as well as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), to increase pressure on Singapore to end its punitive approach to drug control policies.
The Ineffectiveness and Inequality of the Death Penalty
Sangiorgio argues that there is no evidence to support the unique deterrent effect claimed by proponents of the death penalty. Additionally, she contends that the use of capital punishment disproportionately affects individuals from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds or marginalized groups. This further highlights the inequality and discrimination inherent in the application of the death penalty.
The Global Condemnation of Drug-Related Executions
Both the UNODC and the INCB, international bodies responsible for developing and monitoring drug policies, have condemned the use of the death penalty for drug-related offences. They have called on governments to move towards abolition, emphasizing the ineffectiveness and human rights violations associated with this approach. Singapore stands among a small group of countries, which includes China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, where executions for drug-related offences were confirmed in 2022.
Background: Recent Executions in Singapore
The recent execution of a Singaporean woman, Saridewi Djamani, marks the first known execution of a woman in Singapore since 2004. She was found guilty of possessing approximately 30 grams of heroin for trafficking purposes. Another individual, Mohd Aziz bin Hussain, a Singaporean Malay man, was executed just two days prior for trafficking around 50 grams of heroin.
Singapore has executed a total of 15 people for drug-related offences since executions resumed in March 2022 after a two-year hiatus. Notably, neighboring Malaysia has observed an official moratorium on executions since 2018 and has recently repealed the mandatory death penalty, including for drug-related offences.
A third execution has already been scheduled for August 3rd, involving a man convicted and sentenced to the mandatory death penalty for possessing 54.04 grams of heroin for trafficking purposes.
The Need for Reform
The recent wave of executions in Singapore and the continued use of the death penalty for drug-related crimes underscore the urgency of death penalty reform in the country. As the majority of the world moves towards abolition, Singapore risks isolating itself and falling behind on international human rights standards.
A Philosophical and Ethical Debate
The ongoing use of capital punishment raises important philosophical and ethical questions. Supporters argue that the death penalty is a necessary deterrent against serious crimes and that it provides retributive justice for victims and their families. However, opponents contend that it violates the right to life, has no proven deterrent effect, and risks irreversible mistakes.
Singapore, as a prosperous and developed nation, should seriously reconsider its stance on the death penalty. It should engage in a broader dialogue, involving legal scholars, human rights experts, and the general public, to carefully examine the moral, practical, and efficacy concerns surrounding capital punishment.
Editorial: A Call for Singapore to Lead
Amnesty International’s call for death penalty reform in Singapore presents an opportunity for the country to take a leadership role in promoting human rights and justice. By abolishing the death penalty, Singapore can set an example for other nations, demonstrating its commitment to upholding international human rights standards.
Moreover, as Singapore looks to position itself as a global hub for commerce and innovation, it must consider the potential negative impact of its use of capital punishment on its image, reputation, and relationships with other countries. Respect for human rights and adherence to international norms are crucial for sustainable development and maintaining positive diplomatic ties.
A Call for Change in Policy
The Singaporean government should heed Amnesty International’s call and initiate a thorough review of its death penalty policy. It should engage in dialogue with international human rights organizations, legal experts, and civil society to carefully consider the arguments against capital punishment.
In addition, the government should explore alternative methods of addressing drug-related crimes, such as prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation programs that focus on addressing underlying socio-economic issues and promoting inclusive social policies can be more effective in tackling drug addiction and reducing the demand for illicit substances.
A Final Consideration
Singapore has built a reputation as a prosperous, efficient, and forward-thinking nation. It is time for the country to align its criminal justice system with the international consensus against the death penalty. By doing so, Singapore can uphold its commitment to human rights, fairness, and justice while also positioning itself as a progressive global leader.
<< photo by Kalea Morgan >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
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