Effects of several electron acceptors (Fe3+, Cu2+, Cr(VI), and H2O2) on phenol degradation in anodic contact glow discharge electrolysis have been investigated. Results show that the electron acceptors have positive effects on phenol removal, with the sequence of Fe3+ > Cr(VI) > H2O2 > Cu2+. Under conditions of voltage 500 V and current 100 mA, 100 mg/L phenol can be removed with 10 min of discharge treatment in the presence of 1.0 mmol/L Fe3+, while without any additive only 35 % of phenol is removed in 30 min. The mechanism of the degradation enhancement was discussed based on the reactions taking place in the presence of the different additives.