28
it applies should be progressively reduced and that it should only be employed for the gravest of crimes.
Of the countries reporting to the UN on changes since 1969, only one has abolished the penalty for ordinary crimes. One renewed its suspension of the penalty for most crimes until 1977, while another confirmed its abolition after a trial period of suspension. One country abolished the penalty for all crimes, including military crimes, making it only the 10th country to do so. Meanwhile two countries have expanded the list of crimes for which death is prescribed.
Even more disturbing departures from international standards have included the denial of the right to appeal against conviction or sentence for a capitally punishable offence, the denial of the right to petition for clemency after sentence of death and pronouncement of death sentence on persons under 18 years of age at the time the crime was committed. There has also been a resurgence of the use of the penalty for economic crimes.
In addition, there has been a sharp increase in what might be termed unofficial executions, whereby certain extra-governmental forces, unhampered by the properly constituted authorities, are permitted to murder persons considered to be criminals or political undesirables. Similarly, there have been reports of persons killed while allegedly trying to escape from custody, before or after trial, in circumstances giving strong reason to doubt the official explanation.
Although the present international climate may appear generally unfavourable, Al is determined to continue its grim task of seeking to prevent executions and to protest their imposition.
1