abolition of death penalty: Lebanon

I commend the decision by the Lebanese Parliament to formally abolish the death penalty in the country.

Lebanon is now the first country in the region to do so, and I call on the other countries that still maintain the death penalty to follow its lead in ending this inhumane practice.

In a country subject to devastating attacks and experiencing profound loss and suffering, this decision represents a powerful and principled commitment to the right to life.

I call for the law to be presented swiftly to the President of the Republic for approval and signature, in order that it can be promptly brought into full effect.