EU Commission statement on executions in Indonesia

"The European Commission deeply regrets the decision of the Indonesian authorities to carry out three death sentences on 22 September 2006, in spite of repeated appeals for clemency by numerous voices around the world, including that of the European Union. This execution of three Indonesian citizens constitutes a regrettable step backwards for the country and the region on the path towards universal abolition of the death penalty.

The European Commission recalls its longstanding and principled position of the European Union against the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, regardless of the nature of the criminal offence. It considers that the abolition of capital punishment worldwide contributes to the enhancement of human dignity and the progressive development of human rights.

The Commission urges Indonesia to re-introduce the moratorium on executions, which was suspended in 2004, and to commute all death sentences with a view to joining the ever-growing community of abolitionist countries."

| Top |

• EU Council Conclusions on Indonesia/Aceh  (11/12/2006)
• Aceh, Indonesia: EU deploys Election Observation Mission (16/11/2006)
• Celebration of World Day against the Death Penalty (10/10/2006)
• EU response to Indonesia earthquake (31/5/2006)
• European Commission provides additional €118 million to help rebuild Indonesia's Aceh province (31/3/2006)
• EU General Affairs Council Conclusions on Indonesia/Aceh (27/2/2006)