Mr Bush earlier this month granted his first 30-day reprieve in a death penalty case, but continued to claim confidence in his state's capital punishment system.

BBC: Most US death sentences 'flawed'

But, in other respects, the sudden execution of Mr Takuma was typical of Japan's murky system of capital punishment.

ECONOMIST: Japan: Silent death | The

It can refer to many things, ranging from a pious way of life to a system of corporal and capital punishment, laid down in Islamic law but practised in only a few places.

ECONOMIST: Islamic law and democracy

It called for a "fundamental reform" of a "system which is used more as punishment than a true reflection of what schools are doing".

BBC: Many vocational courses axed from league tables

"My book really is about the impunity system: when there is no punishment for an individual who has committed the crime, when the guilt or innocence is never adjudicated, " he says.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia | Lesser Majesty

History and the precedents alike, show that impeachment is not a punishment for crimes, but a means to protect our constitutional system.

CNN: Transcript: Opening statement of Rep. Nadler

"The judicial system is so out of proportion in America and the punishment is massive - he could lose his job, family and even life, " she added.

BBC: David McIntyre

Correspondents say the punishment has raised many questions about the seriousness of India's juvenile justice system.

BBC: India rapist ordered to 'look after cows'

Unfortunately, the calls for reform are based on the false premise that our criminal-justice system is filled with individuals whose behavior can be changed through more punishment.

WSJ: The War on Drugs Itself Is Causing Most of the Damage