DEATH PENALTY QUIZ

How many countries have abolished (or stopped

using) the death penalty for all crimes?

• All (197)

• 139

• 96

Answer explanation

Answer C: 96 for all crimes (in 2011). FACT: This is the number of countries that have removed capital punishment entirely from their laws. 9 countries have only abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes (such as murder), but their laws still allow the death penalty for exceptional crimes such as crimes under military law or crimes committed in exceptional circumstances. 35 countries still retain the death penalty for ordinary crimes, but because they haven’t executed anyone during the past 10 years, they are considered abolitionist in practice. 58 countries still retain the death penalty for ordinary crimes

Which is the only European country left to use the death penalty?

• Belarus

• Belgium

• Portugal

Answer explanation

Answer C: Belarus.

FACT: In 2011 Belarus passed two death sentences and two prisoners were executed.

List the four most commonly used methods of execution in 2011.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Explain why the true figure is likely to be higher.

Answer explanation

The authorities in a number of countries do not release official or accurate statistics.

FACT: Official figures on the use of the death penalty in 2011 were available only in a small number of countries. In Belarus, China, Mongolia and Viet Nam data on the use of the death penalty continues to be classified as a state secret and also for other countries little or no information is available.

In Belarus, Japan and Viet Nam even the prisoners were not informed of their forthcoming execution, nor were their families and lawyers.

The most executions in 2011 were carried out in ....

World Day Against the Death Penalty takes place on which day every year?

• December 7th

• October 10th

• February 25th

Answer explanation

Answer: October 10th

FACT: The first World Day Against the Death Penalty took place in 2003. A short video from Amnesty International marking the 2012 World Day is available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtLxXU0Go

Name the six main executing countries in the world in 2011.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.