November 18, 2024 – The Third Committee of the UN General Assembly witnessed a significant moment as it passed a resolution advocating the suspension and eventual abolition of the death penalty. The resolution, presented biennially by Italy, gained additional momentum this year with Argentina co-sponsoring the initiative. The partnership between the two nations was widely appreciated by member states, underscoring Argentina’s active role alongside Italy.
A Resolution Against Capital Punishment
Resolution A/C.3/79/L.37/Rev.1 calls on member states to impose a moratorium on executions with the ultimate aim of abolishing the death penalty altogether. It also urges governments to align their legal systems with international standards to ensure fair trials, especially in cases leading to capital punishment.
Italy’s representative emphasized the resolution’s alignment with the principles of human dignity and the right to life. Reflecting on global progress, they noted that while only ten countries had abolished the death penalty when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted 75 years ago, today, more than two-thirds of the world’s nations have either abolished it in law or practice. This trend signifies a growing global consensus on the issue.
In 2023, the number of countries implementing executions dropped to a record low, further highlighting the global shift away from capital punishment. The Italian delegate stressed that this movement transcends cultural and traditional boundaries, positioning the resolution as a pivotal tool for advocating the abolition of the death penalty.
Singapore’s Amendment and Voting Outcomes
Before the main resolution was put to vote, Singapore proposed an amendment emphasizing the sovereignty of states to determine their legal frameworks and penalties within international obligations. This amendment, supported by nations with questionable human rights records, garnered 105 votes in favor, 65 against, and 19 abstentions.
Link of Singapore’s proposed amendment: https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/ltd/n24/345/97/pdf/n2434597.pdf
Following the amendment’s approval, Resolution A/C.3/79/L.37/Rev.1 was voted on and adopted with 131 votes in favor, 36 against, and 21 abstentions. The large number of affirmative votes led to an unusual moment in the committee, as some representatives expressed their enthusiasm with applause, a rare occurrence in such formal settings.
European Union’s Response
Following the adoption, the European Union (EU) issued a statement applauding the resolution. Speaking on behalf of EU member states and aligned nations, the EU emphasized that the resolution reflects a growing international consensus against capital punishment.
The EU highlighted the resolution’s alignment with Article 6.2 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which encourages the progressive abolition of the death penalty. The statement described the death penalty as a cruel and inhumane practice incompatible with human dignity and the fundamental right to life.
Global Momentum Towards Abolition
The EU’s statement noted the concerning persistence of executions in some countries but underscored the global trend toward abolition. To date, approximately 144 countries—three-quarters of UN member states—have abolished the death penalty in law or practice. Last year saw the lowest number of executions recorded, signaling further progress despite isolated increases reported in specific regions.
The statement also highlighted disparities in how the death penalty is applied, often disproportionately targeting marginalized groups and those unable to afford legal defense. It stressed that no evidence supports the death penalty’s efficacy as a deterrent to crime and reiterated the irreversible harm caused by judicial errors.
A Broader Perspective
The resolution’s broad cross-regional support demonstrates that abolishing the death penalty is not confined to any particular culture, religion, or tradition. Nations from diverse legal, cultural, and religious backgrounds have successfully abolished the practice, proving that it is a matter of political will and commitment to upholding human rights for all.
The EU commended Italy and Argentina for their leadership in fostering consensus around the resolution. This collaborative effort between countries and regions underscores the growing recognition of the death penalty’s incompatibility with modern justice systems and human rights principles.
Conclusion
The adoption of the resolution marks another milestone in the global effort to end capital punishment. While challenges remain, the international community’s increasing alignment on this issue sends a powerful message: the death penalty has no place in the pursuit of justice and human dignity. As countries continue to abolish this practice, the world moves closer to a universal standard of respect for life and human rights.
