Most UN Members States – with a variety of legal systems, traditions, cultures and religious backgrounds – have either abolished the death penalty or do not practice it. Yet, prisoners in a number of countries, including countries in South-East Asia, continue to face execution. Considering the fundamental nature of the right to life, OHCHR advocates for the universal abolition of the death penalty. In line with General Assembly resolutions calling for a phasing out of capital punishment, the Regional Office supports governments, civil society and other stakeholders campaigning for a moratorium on the death penalty and ultimately its abolition worldwide.

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