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About PRI| UN General Assembly adopts resolution calling for a moratorium on the death penalty |
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20 December 2007 PRI warmly welcomes the UN General Assembly's vote on 18 December calling for a global moratorium on executions by a resounding 104 states in favour, 54 against and 29 abstaining. PRI calls on retentionist governments to stop all executions. It additionally urges all governments to give their serious attention to the situation of those who are left on death row or whose death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment. ‘The uncritical acceptance of life imprisonment as an alternative to the death penalty raises serious concerns about both the conditions under which such prisoners are held and the implications of a sentence that does not allow for rehabilitation or reformation,’ said Alison Hannah, PRI’s Executive Director. ‘Any discussion of the inherent problems with the death penalty raises issues that apply equally to a life sentence – deterrence, retribution, rehabilitation and internationally agreed human rights standards.’ ‘To pursue abolition without tackling the issue of life imprisonment is simply to move from the ultimate sanction to a position also detrimental to those involved.’ States have positive obligations towards all persons who are particularly vulnerable because they are deprived of their liberty. Their humanity and inherent dignity must always be recognised. States should ensure prisoners’ well-being during their incarceration and work for their rehabilitation so that they can be successfully reintegrated into society. Every prisoner has the right to a review of their conviction and sentence to ensure that their continued imprisonment is appropriate, just and predictable. PRI notes that Article 110(3) of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court provides that a sentence of life imprisonment must be reviewed after 25 years. This court deals with the most serious crimes in the world - war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Sentences of less gravity should be reviewed in a shorter timeframe. Further Information |
