World Day Against the Death Penalty

October 10, Friday

World Day Against the Death Penalty
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World Day Against the Death Penalty is observed annually on October 10. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the use of the death penalty and promoting the global movement for its complete abolition.

History of the holiday
World Day Against the Death Penalty was established in 2003 at the initiative of the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty. This organization unites more than a hundred human rights groups, bar associations, and civil society organizations from around the world that oppose the use of the death penalty.

Goals of the holiday
The main goal of the day is to increase public awareness of the consequences of the death penalty and to promote the idea of its abolition in all countries. The organizers aim to:

* support international campaigns for the abolition of the death penalty;
* inform about human rights violations related to its application;
* remind people of the value of human life and everyone’s right to fair justice.

Themes and events
Each year, World Day Against the Death Penalty is dedicated to a specific theme. For example, in different years, attention has been paid to issues such as the impact of the death penalty on prisoners' mental health, discrimination in the judicial system, or the application of the death penalty to women or minors.
On this day, conferences, street actions, educational activities, and cultural events are held to inform society.

Current situation
According to human rights organizations, more and more countries are abandoning the death penalty. More than two-thirds of the world’s states have abolished it in law or in practice. However, in some countries it is still applied, which causes international debates and condemnation by human rights movements.

Significance of the holiday
World Day Against the Death Penalty reminds us of the need to respect human life and human rights. It serves as a symbol of solidarity for all those fighting for a humane and just society without the death penalty.

World Day Against the Death Penalty

World Day Against the Death Penalty in other years

World Day Against the Death Penalty in other countries

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