The BBC explains why Indonesia executed 2 Australians, 6 others on drug charges

Indonesia executed 8 people for drug-related crimes. Why so tough?

(Image credit: BBC/YouTube)

published 29 April 2015

Despite pleas for clemency from people including Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, Indonesia early Wednesday executed eight prisoners on drug-related charges. Along with one Indonesian national, the executed included two Australians, one Brazilian, and six Nigerians. Two more prisoners, a Frenchman and a Filipino woman, are in prison while the appeal is pending.

Abbott called the executions "cruel and unnecessary," and recalled Canberra's ambassador to Indonesia for consultations. Brazil also condemned the executions, as did Amnesty International. As to why Indonesia has such a harsh punishment for smuggling in marijuana and heroin, BBC Indonesia's Liston Siregar takes a stab at explaining, noting the country's high rate of addiction and the public support for the tough hand. Watch his longer explanation below. —Peter Weber

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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.

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