Saudi Arabia has reached a grim milestone, executing 198 prisoners in 2024, marking the highest number in over three decades. The country now holds the third-highest execution rate globally, surpassed only by China and Iran. This surge in executions surpasses previous records, highlighting a concerning trend in the kingdom’s capital punishment practices.
Ten individuals have been charged with treason in Nigeria for their alleged role in nationwide protests against rising living costs. The protests, which drew thousands to the streets, were met with a violent crackdown by security forces. Amnesty International condemned the charges as politically motivated and called for the release of all arrested protesters.
A new report by Amnesty International highlights the dire situation of people with disabilities in Ukraine, revealing how the war has exacerbated their vulnerabilities. The report details the challenges they face in accessing shelters, receiving adequate healthcare, and avoiding institutionalization, exposing the failings of both Ukraine and Russia in fulfilling their obligations to this vulnerable group.
Amidst concerns raised by international bodies, Palestinian medics have discovered over 300 bodies in mass graves at the Nasser Medical Complex and al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, raising allegations of potential war crimes and extrajudicial killings during the Israeli military offensive. The harrowing findings have prompted calls for an independent investigation to ensure accountability and preserve evidence. The Israeli military claims that those killed were militants, while witnesses and journalists maintain that civilians and medical workers were among the victims.
Amnesty International has expressed alarm over the deteriorating state of international law, highlighting the disregard for rules and values by powerful governments such as the US, Russia, and China. The report cites flagrant violations in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Myanmar, as well as the rise of authoritarianism and suppression of women’s rights globally. The organization emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international norms to prevent further human rights abuses.
Amnesty International has accused Germany and other European countries of applying double standards in their approach to Gaza, criticizing Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock for not pursuing a human-rights based foreign policy. The organization’s annual report highlights the ongoing suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, condemning Israel’s collective punishment and indiscriminate bombings as a mockery of international law. Amnesty also warns of the resurgence of authoritarian systems, the erosion of human rights worldwide and the dangers posed by unregulated AI.
