Some governments argue that the death penalty is necessary in societies scarred by violent crime.
The ultimate punishment is needed, they say, to deter others from committing similar crimes, and to address the feelings of victims of crime and their relatives by offering commensurate retribution. Superintendent of Hattieville Rehabilitation Centre, Belize shows how the rope will be used for an execution. Such governments are simply abdicating their responsibilities. They should concentrate on eradicating crime by improving policing and addressing the causes of crime. Governments could offer victims of crime and their families financial and other forms of support so their shattered lives can be rebuilt.