How to Find Information on Capital Punishment Around the World

The United States is one of only a handful of democratic, advanced countries that regularly employ capital punishment. However, in some places, such as Singapore, courts sentence offenders to death for simple drug possession. Follow these steps to learn how other nations view capital punishment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Know what countries around the world practice the death penalty and what countries have abolished it. Though the United States still practices capital punishment in 38 states, Mexico and Canada have completely abolished it. Most of Europe has also abolished the death penalty, as has Australia. Most of Africa, however, and much of Asia still practice capital punishment.
2. Know what offenses warrant capital punishment in different countries around the globe. Most countries that practice capital punishment use it as sentence for certain types of murder. Many also impose the death penalty for treason or mutiny, while others use it for drug trafficking, armed robbery or even witchcraft. A few countries have effectively abolished capital punishment but retain it in the most extreme cases, such as war crimes.
3. Read about the United Nations' Convention on the Rights of the Child (see Resources below), which outlaws the death penalty for juveniles all over the world.
4. Be aware of potential bias in Web sites. Some may advocate capital punishment while others may be opposed to it. Know whether you're looking just for statistics and information or for arguments pro or con.
5. Get involved. Contact Amnesty International (see Resources below) for more information about capital punishment around the world and how you can help affect its use.

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