Mon, Oct 12, 2009 page8

• For the sake of dignity, end capital punishment

  • By Henrik Bystrom
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  OctOBER 10 was the World Day Against the Death Penalty. So far, 90 countries around the world have formally abolished the death penalty, and more than 40 no longer carry out capital punishment in practice.

  The EU and all its member states are firmly opposed to the death penalty. The death penalty is considered incompatible with the principle of human rights, which is a fundamental pillar of the EU.

  This year, the World Day Against the Death Penalty falls during the Swedish presidency of the EU. Sweden and the EU attach great importance to this issue and have long taken a strong position regarding worldwide abolition of the death penalty.

  In many European countries, public opinion was not in favor of abolition at the time it was implemented. Today, however, it would be unthinkable to reintroduce the death penalty in any country of the EU, and there is no serious debate on that prospect in any member state.

  The EU is opposed to capital punishment in all cases and under all circumstances.

  HUMAN DIGNITY

  First, we believe that the abolition of the death penalty is essential to protect human dignity and to the progressive development of human rights.

  Second, the death penalty is irreversible. All available evidence shows that miscarriages of justice exist in all countries, no matter how many safeguards are in place to minimize the risk.

  Third, there is no evidence to support the deterrent value of the death penalty. Most countries in Europe have had the death penalty at some time in their history. This being the case, we have extensive experience and have thoroughly studied the subject: There is no evidence to suggest that serious violent crimes increased after the abolishment of the death penalty.

  Taiwan is much admired in Europe for its vibrant democracy and the vast improvements in human rights that have taken place since martial law was lifted in 1987. The example of Taiwan is often seen as a source of inspiration for others to follow.

  Taiwan has seen two peaceful and orderly transfers of power as a result of democratic, free and peaceful elections. Taiwan has a free media, and open debate prevails. NGOs play an increasingly important role in society and protests can be peacefully organized for almost any cause. It is widely recognized that progress has been made in the legal process.

  With regard to the death penalty, it is encouraging to note that no execution has been carried out in Taiwan since 2005. The penal code has been amended. Today, the death penalty is among the possible sentences for a limited number of crimes, unlike before.

  UNRESOLVED

  Nevertheless, the basic issue remains unresolved and the death penalty is still part of the legal system in Taiwan.

  Furthermore, there are still numerous prisoners on death row and the death penalty continues to be meted out by the courts.

  On the occasion of the World Day Against the Death Penalty, the EU appeals to all states that still have the death penalty to abolish it.

  This appeal is also being made here in Taiwan, and in making it I have the support of all my colleagues from the EU here in Taipei.

  We reiterate our call, made in previous years, for Taiwan to take the necessary steps to formally abolish the death penalty and commute the sentences of those who are on death row.

  Henrik Bystrom is head of the Swedish Trade Council in Taipei.
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