StatementsOffice of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Alabama execution
26 January 2024
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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.
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