On the execution of Cecil Clayton in the US State of Missouri on 17 March 2015: Statement by the Spokesperson

EU News 69/2015

Brussels, 18/03/2015
150318_03_en

Yesterday Cecil Clayton was executed by the US State of Missouri despite evidence indicating that his mental capacities were seriously damaged. This follows several other executions of mentally impaired persons in the United States. These executions are contrary to international human rights law.

The death penalty is cruel, inhuman and irreversible, and does not serve any deterrent purpose. The EU believes that the abolition of the death penalty is essential to protect human dignity and to the progressive development of human rights.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2015/150318_03_en.htm

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