"Global Executions Surge to Decade High in 2023, Led by China and Iran"

2023 has seen a significant rise in global executions, with China leading the count, reportedly executing thousands for dissent and various crimes. Iran follows with a 48% increase in executions, primarily for drug-related offenses. Saudi Arabia, the US, and Somalia also saw notable increases. Amnesty International highlights the use of the death penalty as a tool for repression in several countries, with a total of 1,153 recorded executions globally, excluding China's unreported figures.