New York, 7 October 2026

Mr. Chair,

“Human rights are inviolable, since they are ‘inherent in the human person and in human dignity.’ Consequently, they are universal and inalienable. Precisely because they are grounded in the common dignity of every man and woman, they have practical consequences and legal effects, for ‘it would be vain to proclaim human rights if, at the same time, everything were not done to ensure the duty of respecting them, respect by all, in all places and for all.’ Among these rights, the first is the right to life.”[1] The defence of life must therefore be consistent and universal, extending to every person, at every stage and in every circumstance.

For this reason, “the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person.”[2] This God-given dignity is never forfeited, no matter the gravity of the crime. Advances in penal systems now allow States to protect society effectively without foreclosing the possibility of repentance and redemption.

Further considerations reinforce the case for abolition. When the death penalty is enforced, there is no recourse in the event in case of a miscarriage of justice.

Conversely, the victims and their families are entitled to solidarity, support and a justice that is prompt, impartial, and humane. However, the taking of another life cannot restore what has been lost. The purpose of punishment is not vengeance, but rather to repair the social bond, protect the common good, and reintegrate the offender.

Mr. Chair,

The Holy See is encouraged by the fact that many States have abolished the death penalty in law or established moratorium. Nevertheless, executions continue in too many places. Pope Leo XIV has expressed the hope that “efforts are made to abolish the death penalty, a measure that destroys all hope of forgiveness and renewal.”[3]

In this spirit, States that retain the death penalty should consider establishing, without delay, a moratorium on executions as a step towards abolition. They should also commute existing sentences and guarantee fair trials with adequate legal defence, as well as investing in rehabilitation and restorative approaches that facilitate renewal.

It is clear that “only when a society safeguards the sanctity of human life will it flourish and prosper.”[4]

Thank you, Mr. Chair.
 

_______________________________________

[1] Pope Leo XIV, Encyclical Letter Magnifica Umanitas, 55.

[2] Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2267 (revised text, 2018).

[3] Pope Leo XIV, Address to the Members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, 9 January 2026.

[4] Pope Leo XIV, Video message to the participants in the event "A Beacon of Light in Darkness," DePaul University, Chicago, 24 April 2026.