Global executions reach highest level since 1981, with Iran leading the figures

Monday 18 May 2026 - 10:00

The number of executions worldwide reached its highest level since 1981 in 2025, according to a new report by Amnesty International, highlighting a significant rise driven mainly by Iran and continued high levels of executions in China.

The report estimates that at least 2,707 executions were carried out globally in 2025, excluding China, where data is not fully available but where authorities are believed to conduct the highest number of executions worldwide.

Human rights researchers note that the global figure represents a sharp increase compared to previous years, reflecting a 78% rise compared with 2024. The trend has raised serious concerns among international observers about the growing use of capital punishment.

Iran alone accounted for approximately 80% of all recorded executions. Around 2,159 people were executed in the country, compared to 972 in the previous year. Most executions were carried out by hanging.

According to Amnesty International, Iranian authorities have increasingly used the death penalty as a tool of political control and repression. The report highlights a sharp rise in executions following periods of political tension and regional conflict.

China remains the country with the highest estimated number of executions, although official figures are not released. Amnesty International notes that thousands of executions are believed to take place in China each year, but exact data is not publicly available.

The report also stresses that the global increase in executions reflects broader concerns about human rights protections, judicial transparency, and the use of the death penalty in several regions.

Experts continue to call for greater international pressure to reduce reliance on capital punishment and to encourage reforms in justice systems worldwide.