French Parliament Legalizes Assisted Dying for Incurably Ill Adults
A significant bill granting a legal right to assisted dying for adults facing incurable, life-threatening conditions has been passed by the French parliament. On Wednesday, the lower house approved the measure with a vote of 291 to 241. This access is limited to French citizens or legal residents enduring a serious, incurable illness in an advanced or terminal stage, who suffer from ongoing physical or psychological pain and can make an informed choice. The new law permits individuals to request a lethal substance, which they can self-administer or have administered by a healthcare professional if they are unable to do so. President Emmanuel Macron remarked on social media that this process involved listening, dialogue, and debate, honoring a pledge he made in 2022.
Key facts
- French parliament adopted assisted-dying bill on Wednesday.
- Lower house voted 291 to 241 in favor.
- Access limited to adults with incurable life-threatening illnesses causing constant suffering.
- Lethal substance can be self-administered or given by a doctor/nurse.
- Patient must be French citizen or legal resident.
- Illness must be in advanced or terminal phase.
- Patient must be able to express free and informed choice.
- President Macron committed to this in 2022.
Entities
Institutions
- French parliament
- lower house
Locations
- France