Why do human rights groups like Amnesty International oppose the death penalty?
Amnesty International and other human rights groups oppose and campaign against the death penalty in all cases throughout the world, and without reservation, on the grounds that it is a violation of the right to life, and constitutes the ultimate cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment. No matter what reason a government gives for killing prisoners, and what method of execution is used, the death penalty cannot be divorced from the issue of human rights. Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights proclaims ‘Everyone has the right to life’. Article 5 categorically states that ‘No one shall be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment’. Amnesty International believes not only that the death penalty violates these rights, but also that these rights are inalienable. They may not be taken away even if a person has committed the most atrocious crimes. Human rights apply to the worst of us as well as the best of us, which is why they protect us all. Moreover
