Momentum is growing for an end to capital punishment after Amnesty International's (AI) latest analysis revealed a big drop in executions. The Annual Death Penalty Statistics launched in Rome show a worldwide trend towards abolition with an encouraging 25 per cent decrease in executions and death sentences in 2006.

Last year, the Philippines became the 99th country to abolish the death penalty for ordinary crimes, while Georgia and Moldova removed provisions for the death penalty from their constitutions. Many more, including South Korea, stand on the brink of abolition. Only 16 countries were abolitionist in 1977. "AI is calling for a universal moratorium on execution," said Secretary General Irene Khan. "A death penalty free world is possible if key governments are willing to show political leadership." Despite the encouraging signs, statistics reveal that many states continue to kill their citizens with a total disregard for basic human rights.

At least 1,591 prisoners were executed by their own governments in 25 countries last year, while 3,861 new death sentences were issued (in 55 countries). Over 20,000 prisoners currently languish on death row across the globe.

91 per cent of all known executions in 2006 took place in six countries: China, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Pakistan and the USA. "These hard core executioners are isolated and out of tune with global trends," said Ms Khan. "The figures are inexcusable, but even officials in Iraq and China have spoken of their desire to see an end to the use of the death penalty." Based on public reports available, AI estimated that at least 1,010 people were executed by the Chinese government last year. These figures are only the tip of the iceberg, with credible sources suggesting the real total is closer to 8,000. Iran's execution rate nearly doubled compared to 2005, with at least 177 people killed. It also executed the highest number of child offenders (four), while Pakistan killed one. Iraq was a new entry on the list of top executioners after a dramatic escalation in deaths, with at least 65 hangings.

"The death penalty is the ultimate cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment," said Ms Khan. "It must be abolished and a universal moratorium will be an important step forward."

Source: Amnesty International.