ACHRS opposes and actively campaigns against the death penalty in all cases and every form no matter where it is used. It considers the death penalty a violation of the right to life and the ultimate form of inhuman, cruel, and degrading punishment. In its stance against the death penalty, the organization in no way condones violent crime nor questions the responsibility of governments to ensure that those who commit such crimes are brought to justice. In carrying out this responsibility, however, governments must abide by relevant international law and standards, including the abolition of the death penalty and the prohibition of torture.
ACHRS recognizes that capital punishment has not proven to be an effective deterrent for violent crimes. The organization also emphasizes that execution is permanent and that as long as the death penalty is in practice, the risk of executing the innocent can never be eliminated.