Jerusalem, 27 October 2016
The EU Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah condemn the five death sentences recently issued in Gaza
The EU Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah condemn the five death sentences recently issued in Gaza: one death sentence was issued on 16th October in Deir alBalah, three (of which one by a military court) on 17th October in Gaza City and one on 20th October, also in Gaza City. As a result, in one week's time, the number of death sentences in Gaza in 2016 thus far, has now risen to 21.
The EU Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah recall the EU's firm opposition under all circumstances to the use of capital punishment. The EU considers that abolition of the death penalty contributes to the protection of human dignity and the progressive development of human rights. It considers capital punishment to be cruel and inhuman, that it fails to provide deterrence to criminal behaviour, and represents an unacceptable denial of human dignity and integrity.
The de facto authorities in Gaza must refrain from carrying out any executions of prisoners and comply with the moratorium on executions put in place by the Palestinian Authority, pending abolition of the death penalty in line with the global trend.
Contact: EU Press Office on +972-2-541 5888
Download Document Files: https://unispal.un.org/pdfs/EUSTATE_271016a.pdf
Document Type: Arabic text, Press Release, Statement
Document Sources: European Union (EU)
Subject: Casualties, Gaza Strip, Human rights and international humanitarian law
Publication Date: 27/10/2016