French lawmakers have approved the creation of a “right to assisted dying” after a week of intense debates on end-of-life choices, with patients having to self-administer lethal substances if able.
The article establishing this right was passed with 75 votes in favour and 41 against. A full vote on the “right to assisted dying” is scheduled for 27 May.
In 2022, President Emmanuel Macron committed to a public reflection on end-of-life issues and revealed the main points of a proposed law in March 2024.
The project was temporarily halted by the dissolution of the National Assembly but was revived by Prime Minister François Bayrou. He divided the proposal into two parts—palliative care and assisted dying—to allow deputies the freedom to support one part without endorsing the other.
The creation of assisted dying, also known as assisted suicide and euthanasia, has sparked fierce debates, even within the government. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is a staunch opponent, as are many on the right and far-right, though the issue cuts across political lines.
In Belgium, euthanasia has been legal for over 20 years, but it must be carried out by a doctor following a strict procedure.
