The death penalty in Pakistan 2024 has come under intense scrutiny, as alarming statistics reveal that there are currently 6,161 prisoners on death row. This figure marks a significant increase from the 6,039 reported in 2023, according to the latest findings by Justice Project Pakistan (JPP), a renowned non-profit legal organization based in Lahore.
JPP is dedicated to advocating for some of the most vulnerable individuals within the Pakistani criminal justice system who face the harshest penalties, both within the country and abroad.
The third edition of JPP’s annual report, titled “Death Penalty in Pakistan: Data Mapping Capital Punishment,” was released in conjunction with the 22nd World Day against the Death Penalty. This comprehensive report not only highlights the increasing number of inmates on death row but also offers a critical analysis of the systemic issues that contribute to the persistent use of capital punishment in Pakistan.
According to the report, the majority of death row inmates are located in Punjab, which houses 2,505 prisoners, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) follows closely with 2,311. This surge in numbers contrasts sharply with trends from 2022, when there were only 3,226 individuals on death row, reflecting a troubling upward trajectory in capital sentences.
The 2024 report delves deep into the intricate landscape of Pakistan’s death penalty, consolidating both quantitative and qualitative data to provide a fuller picture of this pressing issue. The findings reveal that Pakistan is ranked among the highest users of the death penalty globally, a “sobering statistic” that underscores the urgent need for comprehensive judicial reform. Despite the absence of executions since December 2019, the country remains a significant enforcer of capital punishment, with over 31 crimes still subject to the death penalty.
The JPP report is publicly accessible on the NGO’s digital platform, inviting engagement from policymakers, legal advocates, and the general populace. The organization emphasizes the importance of using these data to foster a broader dialogue surrounding justice reform in Pakistan. They assert that understanding the human stories behind these stark statistics is essential for acknowledging the often-overlooked human toll that state-sanctioned executions impose.
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As Pakistan continues to grapple with these pressing issues, the call for reform has never been more urgent. Advocates are pushing for a reevaluation of capital punishment practices, highlighting the need for a justice system that prioritizes human rights and the dignity of all individuals.
