Maldives slams Human Rights Council critics after death penalty remarks

The Maldives has accused critics in the UN Human Rights Council of making statements “rooted on misrepresentation and media speculation”.

The response followed comments made by the Swiss delegation criticising the Maldives for its decision to allow the death penalty for minors.

“Switzerland condemns the recent decision of the Maldives Government to amend its legislation to permit the death penalty for children as young as 7 years old – this is a grave contravention of international law,” said the Swiss during yesterday’s session.

The Maldives has this year amended regulations regarding the death penalty as well as introducing a new Penal Code. Combined, the rules allow for the sentencing of a minor to death, though execution cannot be carried out until the offender is 18-years-old.