On January 17, 2025, Taiwan carried out its first execution in five years, executing a prisoner convicted of murder. This action has sparked significant backlash from human rights organizations within the European Union, which have expressed deep concerns regarding Taiwan's commitment to human rights standards.
The execution reflects a contentious debate within Taiwan over the death penalty, with advocates arguing for its deterrent effect on crime, while opponents cite moral and ethical considerations against capital punishment.
Internationally, the event has prompted calls for Taiwan to reconsider its stance on the death penalty, especially amidst a growing global trend towards abolition. Rights groups are urging the Taiwanese government to align its practices with international human rights norms.