State sponsored murder or justice? More than 26 million people have been
executed since 1900. But less than 10% have commited any real crime, other
than belonging to the 'wrong' religion, race or political party.

An objective look at the cultural, social and historical context of the
death penalty,'Executions' offers a rare insight into the rights and wrongs
of the ultimate act of retribution.

It chronicles its use in the 20th century and examines the tools of the
executioner's grim trade. It questions so-called 'humane' execution and
in doing so indicts the mass murderers of barbarous regimes.

The images of death, drawn from around the world, are as shocking as they
are tragic. But only by witnessing them and understanding their background
can you hope to decide for yourself when, if ever, execution is the
punishment that fits the crime.