Human rights advocates are expressing concern as Singapore is scheduled to execute a woman for the first time in nearly two decades. Saridewi Djamani, a 45-year-old Singaporean national, was found guilty of trafficking 30g of heroin in 2018. She will be the second drug convict to face execution in three days, adding to the 15 executions since March 2022.

Singapore maintains strict anti-drug laws, justifying them as necessary to protect society. However, critics, including British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, argue that the death penalty does not deter crime. Saridewi’s case has drawn international attention, with Amnesty International and other advocacy groups condemning Singapore’s use of the death penalty for drug offenses.

Despite global criticism, Singapore’s authorities defend the practice, stating that strict laws contribute to the country’s safety and enjoy significant public support. Nonetheless, human rights organizations call for an end to these executions and emphasize that capital punishment does not uniquely deter drug-related crimes.