The issue of whether or not the death penalty, also known as capital punishment, is in accordance with human rights principles has long been under close examination.Â
Opponents of the death sentence argue that it directly contradicts the fundamental right to life, which is widely recognized and protected under international human rights standards. They contend that taking a person's life as a form of punishment is a violation of their inherent dignity and deprives them of the opportunity for rehabilitation or redemption.
The potential for the death sentence to amount to harsh, brutal, or degrading treatment is another major issue brought up by opponents. They contend that execution procedures, even when carried out with the goal of reducing suffering, can still cause the condemned person agony and grief.
One of the strongest arguments against the death sentence from a human rights perspective is the inherent risk of irreversible errors in the judicial system. Despite procedural safeguards, mistakes can occur, leading to the execution of innocent individuals. Once a person is executed, there is no way to rectify the miscarriage of justice. Critics contend that this risk alone should render the death sentence incompatible with the principles of human rights
The debate over whether the death sentence aligns with human rights principles continues, highlighting the importance of upholding human rights and seeking alternative approaches to justice.
