Saudi Arabia Faces Criticism Amid Record Executions

Saudi Arabia is facing widespread criticism from human rights activists as it seeks a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council, following a year marked by a record number of 208 executions in 2024. The Kingdom has surpassed previous highs despite Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's pledges to reduce capital punishment. Critics highlight Saudi Arabia's human rights record, including the imprisonment of women like Manahel al-Otaibi for female empowerment advocacy and the alleged killing of Ethiopian migrants at its border. Human Rights Watch and others have pointed out the Kingdom's failure to address past incidents like the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Despite reforms under Vision 2030, such as allowing women to drive, the persistence of harsh penalties for minor offenses undermines these efforts. The UN will decide on new council members on October 9, with Saudi Arabia competing for a place among the Asia-Pacific group of candidates.