Michigan – The American Center for Justice (ACJ) has addressed a letter to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, expressing serious concern over the increasing number of executions in Iraq, which violate human rights and international legal standards.

The ACJ cited reports that Iraqi authorities recently conducted one of the largest execution campaigns since 2003, with at least 50 individuals executed in Nasiriyah Central Prison in September. These executions were part of rushed procedures lacking both transparency and fairness.

The ACJ highlighted that many death row inmates had confessed under torture, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the evidence used against them. This concern has been echoed by judges and prosecutors, who acknowledged serious shortcomings in the judicial process. The ACJ called for a comprehensive review of legal procedures and a reassessment of cases to ensure justice.

The center further stressed that Iraq’s continued use of the death penalty contravenes its obligations under international treaties, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees the right to life and ensures the right to a fair trial. Additionally, these actions violate Iraq's own constitution, which mandates the protection of life and fair judicial proceedings based on credible evidence.

The ACJ concluded its letter by urging the president to immediately suspend all executions and revoke current death sentences. It called for the release of detainees whose guilt has not been proven and demanded independent investigations into their cases.

The center also urged the president to guarantee that future trials meet international standards of fairness, allowing defendants the right to a proper defense. It called for compensation to be provided to the victims of wrongful executions and their families as part of national reconciliation efforts.

The ACJ emphasized that meeting these demands would strengthen the rule of law, reduce societal divisions, restore trust in the judicial system, and contribute to lasting stability in Iraq.

The full letter is available in PDF format.