Amnesty International published its annual report on the death penalty on Monday, May 18. The non-governmental organization documented at least 2,707 executions worldwide, a 78% increase compared to the previous year. This is the second deadliest year since the establishment of this barometer. The record level is mainly due to the bloody repression in Iran against the population.
These are chilling numbers. At least 2,707 people were executed in 2025 around the world after being sentenced to death, according to a count by Amnesty International, representing a 78% increase compared to 2024. This is the highest number of executions observed since 1981.
The human rights organization that had seen rising levels last year explains this increase primarily by the repression in Iran, where about 2,159 people were executed by hanging (compared to 972 in 2024). In other parts of the world, Saudi Arabia executed 356 people, Yemen at least 51, the United States 47, Egypt 23, Somalia, Singapore, and Kuwait 17. In total, 17 countries carried out executions.
Anne Denis, head of the death penalty, torture, and health commission at Amnesty International for 16 years, deciphers this macabre count for BFM and remains hopeful in the march towards abolitionism.
Context: Amnesty International’s report highlights a significant increase in the number of executions worldwide, with particular focus on repressive regimes like Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Fact Check: The content highlights the alarming rise in executions globally, providing specific numbers from different countries and regions, as reported by Amnesty International.
