On 18 June 2025, during the UN Human Rights Council (HRC)’s 59th Session, ALQST and the Gulf Centre for Human Rights delivered a joint oral statement addressing the execution crisis in Saudi Arabia. So far this year (as of 4 July), the Saudi authorities have executed 181 individuals, including 118 for drug-related offences. Hundreds remain at imminent risk. The statement can be read in full below.
Joint statement
Mr. President,
The Gulf Centre for Human Rights and ALQST for Human Rights welcome the Special Rapporteur’s report on the rights of families of victims of unlawful killings.
This is a critical issue in Saudi Arabia amid a shocking surge in executions. So far this year, authorities have executed 152 individuals, including 96 for drug-related offences—despite pledging to limit the use of the death penalty. Many families now live in fear of the imminent execution of loved ones.
Those at imminent risk include at least 37 Ethiopian and 29 Somali nationals in Najran Prison and 26 Egyptian nationals in Tabuk Prison, highlighted in a recent urgent call from the Special Rapporteur. These individuals face systematic violations, including torture, denial of legal counsel, and isolation from the outside world.
We are also alarmed by at least nine young men facing execution for alleged crimes committed as minors, following trials marred by coerced confessions and denial of legal representation.
All executions in Saudi Arabia have been preceded by serious violations of fair trial rights and due process. As such, they are arbitrary and in clear violation of international law.
Moreover, families are denied farewell visits and prior notice, often learning of executions only through the media. Authorities also regularly withhold victims’ bodies, depriving families of the right to mourn in accordance with their beliefs.
Given the scale and gravity of these abuses, we urge you to ask the Saudi authorities to immediately establish an official moratorium on executions, with a view to abolishing the death penalty for all crimes.
