In a context of increasing numbers of executions across the world and steps to extend the use of capital punishment, the Committee of Ministers reiterated its total opposition to the death penalty and called for continued efforts to promote its universal abolition, in a series of decisions adopted at its meeting of 7 October.
The member states particularly deplored the situation in Iran, the resumption of executions in Japan, their increase in the United States and the expansion of the scope of the death penalty by Israel. They also expressed concern about debates on the possible reintroduction of the death penalty in countries which have abolished it.
The Committee of Ministers called again on Belarus, which is the last remaining European country to apply the death penalty, to suspend all executions pending abolition, and to apply the alternative penalties provided for by its legislation.
It pointed to the importance of fostering international co-operation and raising awareness among young people. It welcomed the abolition of the death penalty in Lebanon and the announcement by Morocco that it would be hosting the World Congress against the Death Penalty in 2029.
Lastly, it underlined that 2027 would mark 30 years without any execution in the 46 Council of Europe member states.
Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe
