On recent executions in the Autonomous Region of Kurdistan in Iraq: Statement by the Spokesperson

EU News 230/2015

Brussels, 26/08/2015
150826_02

With no executions carried out in the Autonomous Region of Kurdistan since 2008, the Kurdistan Region Government (KRG) has set a progressive example in a troubled region, and demonstrated that it is possible to ensure a high level of security without resorting to capital punishment. The breaking of the de facto moratorium, with the execution of Farhad Jaafar Mahmood and his two wives, Khuncha Hassan Ismaeil and Berivan Haider Karim, on 12 August 2015 represents a step back.

We call on the KRG to re-instate a moratorium, with a view to ultimately abolishing the death penalty and we similarly call the Government of Iraq to introduce a moratorium on executions. The EU, as a principle, opposes the use of the death penalty in any circumstances.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2015/150826_02_en.htm

File Image: Debate on the Death Penalty (C)EU URL

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