Annual report on the death penalty in Iran 2024

Executions for drug-related charges in 2024

Drug-related executions have been steadily rising since 2021. Those executed for drug-related charges are from marginalised and deprived communities and amongst the most voiceless victims of the death penalty in Iran. Along with security charges, drug-related charges fall under the jurisdiction of the Revolutionary Courts which systematically deny defendants their rights to due process and a fair trial. According to reports gathered by IHRNGO, at least 503 people were executed for drug-related offences in 2024.

Facts and figures about drug-related executions in 2024

• At least 503 people were executed, representing a 6.6% rise compared to 2023 (471) and about 20 times the number of drug-related executions recorded in 2020.
• Only 15 drug-related executions were announced by official sources.
• Executions took place in 27 different provinces.
• Baluch minorities, who make up 2-6% of Iran’s population, are overrepresented with 85 executions (17%) compared to 31% (138) in 2023, 47% (121) in 2022 and 43% (55) in 2021.
• 12 women were executed for drug-related offences