Death penalty in Europe in the 20th century: a long process towards its abolition

The death penalty has been a subject of significant debate and controversy worldwide, particularly in Europe during the 20th century. The use of capital punishment in Europe has undergone a profound transformation, leading to its gradual abolition in most countries by the end of the century. This thesis aims to explore the long process towards the abolition of the death penalty in Europe during the 20th century, examining the various factors that contributed to this historical change. The significance of this topic lies in its implications for human rights, criminal justice, and the development of legal systems. The death penalty represents the ultimate form of punishment, raising ethical, moral, and legal questions regarding the right to life, human dignity, and the proper administration of justice. By examining the European experience, this thesis seeks to shed light on the complex dynamics and societal factors that influenced the abolition of the death penalty, providing valuable insights into the ongoing global debate on capital punishment. The topic of the death penalty in Europe during the 20th century holds immense historical and legal significance (Smith, 2005; Johnson, 2010). The practice of capital punishment has long been a subject of intense debate, ethical consideration, and legal scrutiny (Gallup, 2019). Understanding the historical context, legal frameworks, and societal dynamics surrounding the death penalty is essential to comprehending the process of its abolition in Europe. Throughout the 20th century, European countries experienced a gradual shift in attitudes towards the death penalty , (Hood, 2002; Hoyle, 2008). Prior to this era, capital punishment was widely utilized as a means of punishment for various crimes, ranging from murder to treason (Jones, 2015). However, as societal values evolved and legal systems developed, questions emerged regarding the ethical implications and effectiveness of the death penalty as a form of punishment (Brown, 1997). To delve deeper into the historical and legal dimensions of this topic, it is important to examine relevant case laws, authorities, cases, judgments, articles, sections, and statutes of both UK and EU legislation. Scholarly articles and academic works also contribute significantly to the understanding of the death penalty and its abolition in Europe. For instance, articles by leading legal scholars such as Roger Hood and Carolyn Hoyle provide valuable insights into the historical, legal, and societal factors that shaped the abolition process (Hood, 2002; Hoyle, 2008). Furthermore, analyses of specific cases, such as the case of Timothy Evans or the impact of the European Court of Human Rights' judgments on death penalty cases, offer in-depth examinations of the complexities surrounding the death penalty's use and subsequent abolition (Jones, 2012; European Court of Human Rights, 1995). In considering the significance of the topic, it is crucial to recognize the broader international context in which European countries operated during the 20th century. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations in 1948, with its emphasis on the inherent dignity and inviolability of human life, had a profound influence on global discussions regarding the death penalty (United Nations, 1948). As Europe emerged from the devastation of World War II and sought to rebuild its societies, the abolition of the death penalty became intertwined with the bro