Amnesty International Reports Record 2,707 Executions Worldwide in 2025
A record since 1981, a report by Amnesty International released on Monday, May 18th, states that 2,707 people were executed worldwide in 2025 following a death sentence in a total of 17 countries. “This shameful minority (of states, Editor’s note) uses the death penalty to instill fear, crush dissent, and show the power exerted by institutions over disadvantaged individuals and marginalized populations,” denounced Amnesty International’s Secretary-General Agnès Callamard in a statement.
A significant increase, largely driven by Iran, saw the number of death sentences more than double in one year. Reflecting a global phenomenon, the organization also notes the United States’ return to the top 5 countries with the highest use of capital punishment.
A concerning situation that could worsen, as Amnesty indicates in its report that these numbers are “at a minimum.” The organization highlights that for many countries, such as China, data on the death penalty are either underreported or classified by states.
“The death penalty as a tool for repression and political control”
While the 2025 figure remains far from the record 3,191 executions in 1981, it increased by 78% compared to 2024. Primarily attributable to Iran, which represents 80% of the executions documented by the organization. The Iranian regime significantly intensified its deadly policy, with a notable increase in hangings from 972 in 2024 to 2,159 in 2025, a dramatic 122% rise.
“The Iranian authorities have intensified their use of the death penalty as a tool for repression and political control, fueling an unprecedented surge in executions,” notes the organization in its report. The shift in Tehran occurred during the 12-day war between the country, Israel, and the United States in June 2025.
Amnesty International also reports a return of the United States to the top 5 executioner countries, influenced by Donald Trump’s return to the White House. His administration’s policies have further expanded the methods of execution in the country.
Despite various sources used to compile the report, the organization emphasizes the ongoing challenge of obtaining precise figures on global executions due to state concealment. Amnesty notes progress towards the abolition of the death penalty in several countries, highlighting Vietnam and Gambia as examples where certain crimes no longer carry the death penalty.
Amidst the disturbing statistics, there is hope for change as some countries work towards abolishing capital punishment. Amnesty International’s mission of promoting peace and advocating for human rights continues in the face of these challenges.
