Legal Framework

Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR

Commits states parties to the abolition of the death penalty. No executions may be carried out, and states must take all necessary measures to eliminate capital punishment, with a narrow exception for wartime military offenses if reserved at ratification.

Source
https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/second-optional-protocol-international-covenant-civil-and

Related incidents

1 incident

Updated March 25, 2026 Civil Rights
Major Abuse of Power Ongoing Official executive action

Federal Death Penalty Expansion and Discriminatory Application

Executive order reversing the federal execution moratorium and mandating the death penalty be sought for all murders by undocumented immigrants 'regardless of other factors' — creating a …

  • The executive order reversed Biden's July 2021 moratorium on federal executions and directed the attorney general to seek the death penalty …
  • The order mandates the death penalty be pursued 'regardless of other factors' in two specific categories: murders of law enforcement …
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