The figures published by Amnesty International today on the increase in the number of executions around the world are alarming. The vast majority of all executions in 2013 took place in only six states. In particular, the high numbers reported from Iraq and Iran are extremely worrying.

At the same time it is encouraging to see that the international trend towards abolishing capital punishment continues unabated in many parts of the world.

The death penalty is an inhumane punishment which does not make any sense in terms of legal policy. It is an anachronism in the 21st century! The German Government is against capital punishment under any circumstances and, together with its EU partners, is resolutely campaigning for its universal abolition.