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Statements Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Alabama execution

26 January 2024

Delivered by

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk

Location

Geneva

I deeply regret the execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith in Alabama despite serious concerns this novel and untested method of suffocation by nitrogen gas may amount to torture, or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

The death penalty is inconsistent with the fundamental right to life. I urge all States to put in place a moratorium on its use, as a step towards universal abolition.

For more information and media requests, please contact:

In Geneva
Ravina Shamdasani - + 41 22 917 9169 / ravina.shamdasani@un.org
Liz Throssell + 41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.org
Jeremy Laurence +41 22 917 9383 / jeremy.laurence@un.org
Marta Hurtado - + 41 22 917 9466 / marta.hurtadogomez@un.org

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