Summary: 10 October 2007, Brussels - EU Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner joins in the calls to abolish the death penalty: "Today, on the World Day against the Death Penalty I join in with all those who urge all states to abolish the death penalty in practice and law. We must break the cycle of violence and reaffirm the value of life. The EU's firm political commitment is shown by its decision to introduce, in the framework of a cross-regional alliance, a resolution against the death penalty at the 62nd United Nations General Assembly."
The European Union's commitment against the deal penalty goes beyond formal statements: The European Commission has funded around 30 anti-death penalty projects worldwide since 1994, with an overall budget of about €15 million. As of 2007, eight projects were ongoing and six new ones have been selected. A further €4 million have been allocated to support the abolition of the death penalty for 2007-2008.
To date 133 countries have abolished the death penalty in practice or in law and over 50 countries have abolished the death penalty for all crimes since 1990.
For more information on the EU's Human rights & Democratisation Policy - Abolition of the Death Penalty:
http://ec.europa.eu/external_relations/human_rights/adp/index.htm
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