The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Opposing Capital Punishment
The healthcare community is being called upon to take a stand against the death penalty, as highlighted by an expert in The BMJ. Bharat Malkani, a law reader at Cardiff University, emphasizes that doctors should refuse to participate in execution processes and actively oppose a practice that contradicts their commitment to health and well-being.
Rising Execution Rates Despite Global Trends
Amnesty International reports a concerning trend: while the number of countries conducting executions is decreasing, the number of executions in countries where it remains legal has surged. In 2024, at least 1,518 executions were recorded globally, up from 1,153 in 2023. This marks the fourth consecutive year of increasing execution numbers, with 2024 seeing the highest total since 2015.
Countries with the Highest Execution Rates
The majority of these executions occurred in just three countries: Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Iran alone accounted for at least 972 executions, while Saudi Arabia executed at least 345 individuals. In 2025, Saudi Arabia has already executed at least 241 people, potentially setting a new record for the year. Amnesty International also notes that China is believed to conduct thousands of executions annually, although official figures remain a state secret.
Executions for Minor Crimes and Political Dissent
Malkani points out that some individuals face the death penalty for relatively minor offenses or for criticizing governments. A notable case is that of Turki al-Jasser, a journalist executed in Saudi Arabia for exposing corruption within the royal family. Such executions raise significant concerns about justice and freedom of speech.
Execution of Vulnerable Populations
Reports indicate that individuals with mental illness and intellectual disabilities are also subjected to capital punishment, despite international laws prohibiting such executions. This highlights a critical area where medical communities need to focus their attention.
Medical Ethics and Involvement in Executions
Malkani stresses the problematic involvement of medical professionals in execution processes. The American Medical Association’s code of ethics clearly states that doctors should not participate in legally authorized executions. However, this guideline has not entirely prevented some doctors from being involved. In some regions, physicians who refuse to participate can be legally compelled to administer lethal injections.
Global Calls for Ending Physician Participation
The World Medical Association has issued a resolution urging an end to physician involvement in executions. Given the global trend towards authoritarianism and stricter law enforcement, Malkani believes that executions are unlikely to cease soon. Therefore, it is crucial for advocacy groups to continue highlighting the injustice and immorality of state-sanctioned executions.
The Influence of Healthcare Professionals in Abolition Efforts
Healthcare professionals possess influential voices and are highly respected in society. They can play a vital role in abolitionist efforts by refusing to be complicit in executions and by emphasizing that such punishment is inhumane from a medical ethics standpoint and a violation of the right to life.
In conclusion, the medical community’s opposition to capital punishment is essential as execution rates rise. By leveraging their respected positions, healthcare professionals can contribute significantly to the global movement against the death penalty.
🔗 **Fuente:** https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-medical-opposition-capital-surge.html
