Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty* The States Parties to the present Protocol, Believing that abolition of the death penalty contributes to enhancement of human dignity and progressive development of human rights, Recalling article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted on 10 December 1948, and article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, adopted on 16 December 1966, Noting that article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights refers to abolition of the death penalty in terms that strongly suggest that abolition is desirable, Convinced that all measures of abolition of the death penalty should be considered as progress in the enjoyment of the right to life, Desirous to undertake hereby an international commitment to abolish the death penalty, Have agreed as follows: * Adopted and opened for signature, ratification and accession by United Nations General Assembly resolution no. 44/128 of 15 December 1989. The Protocol was opened for signature at New York on 15 December 1989. - Entered into force on 11 July 1991, and has been ratified by 75 countries (as of January 2013). 48