New executions in Iran

In 2010, more executions per capita were carried out in Iran than in any other country. This included the execution of at least two minors and several mass executions. This increase is part of a trend that has developed over several years. 

“I am concerned about the sharp increase in the use of the death penalty in Iran last year,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.  

It is particularly worrying that the Iranian authorities are at the same time violating fundamental principles of Iranian law and international obligations.  

The recent executions of two people for taking part in the demonstrations in 2009 shows that the death penalty is also being used to quell political opposition. 

At the same time, the situation of Iranian human rights defenders has deteriorated considerably in the past few years. Organisations and individuals who report on executions are impeded in their work, and it is therefore difficult for the international community to gain insight into the situation. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a strong focus on the human rights situation in Iran, and will maintain this focus in the time ahead. 

“Norway is fundamentally opposed to capital punishment and is working through the UN to introduce a general moratorium on the use of the death penalty,” said Foreign Minister Støre.