Brussels: The European Union congratulated Lebanon on the adoption of the law abolishing the death penalty announced at the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty held in Paris on 30 June. This landmark legislation marks a significant step forward for human rights in the country.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the abolition of the death penalty for all crimes, including through its retroactive application, is an important achievement. This development builds upon the de facto moratorium on executions that has been maintained in Lebanon since 2004. It demonstrates Lebanon's commitment to respect, protect, and fulfill the right to life.

As the first country in the region to abolish the death penalty, Lebanon is setting a powerful example for other countries in the Middle East and beyond. This move reinforces the strong global trend towards abolition and the growing international support for ending the death penalty worldwide.

The European Union calls on all countries that still apply the death penalty to abolish it and, pending abolition, to maintain or introduce a moratorium on executions as a first step. Additionally, the EU urges those considering its reintroduction to refrain from such a regressive step.

The European Union looks forward to continuing its close cooperation with Lebanon in promoting and protecting human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. It reiterates its strong support for the Lebanese authorities' reform agenda and their engagement in consolidating the state and protecting its citizens.