Supreme court
Inside Story

The execution of José Medellin

Inside Story explores the chances of a just trial for foreign nationals in the US.

undefined
Medellín’s execution has led to a dispute between Mexico and the US [GALLO/GETTY]

In a case that has drawn international attention, the state of Texas executed José E. Medellín, a Mexican national,  on Tuesday night in defiance of an international court ruling.

The execution came shortly after the United States Supreme Court denied a last request for a reprieve.

Medellín’s case has become the focal point of a dispute between Mexico and the US over whether some Mexicans have been denied fair trials because they were never given an opportunity to talk to a consul.

A 1963 treaty requires foreigners accused of crimes to be given that opportunity.

Inside Story investigates whether foreigners are receiving fair trials in the US, the value and effect of the death penalty and whether it achieves the objectives of deterrence.

Watch part one of this episode

Watch part two of this episode

This episode of Inside Story aired on Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 17:30 GMT ___________________________________________________________________
To contact us click on ‘Send your feedback’ at the top of the page

Watch Al Jazeera English programmes on YouTube

Join our debates on the Your Views page