China : Execution only for heinous crimes with ` ` grave social consequences '' Human rights groups say 700 - 800 people were executed in China last year . Supreme Court upheld 10 percent of death sentences last year after review . The death penalty will now be reserved for those who commit heinous crimes with `` grave social consequences , '' the government said . ` ` This is a small incremental step , but a step in the right direction , '' ' Gao says .
China : Execution only for heinous crimes with ` ` grave social consequences '' Human rights groups say 700 - 800 people were executed in China last year . Supreme Court upheld 10 percent of death sentences last year after review . ` ` This is a small incremental step , but a step in the right direction , '' ' Gao says .