On the application of death penalty in Iraq: Statement by the spokesperson

EU News 42/2016

Brussels, 05/02/2016

Executive orders for the execution of 80 persons have recently been announced in Iraq, with further possible execution orders to follow. This is a regrettable development as, following the formation of a new Government in Iraq in 2014, a review of all pending cases was undertaken. This review and a possible permanent suspension of all executions had been seen as a positive signal by the EU, in line with its principled opposition to the use of the death penalty.

Capital punishment is counter-productive as a crime deterrent. The EU strongly encourages Iraq to reinstate a de facto moratorium on the death penalty.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160205_03_en.htm

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