French National Assembly Votes in Favor of Right to Assisted Suicide

Strict Conditions for Aid in Dying

Before a doctor may prescribe the substance, they must consult other physicians under the bill. Only after this consultation with colleagues can so-called aid in dying be initiated. This is intended to ensure that the decision is carefully reviewed and medically accompanied.

Until now, active euthanasia was prohibited in France. With the new provision, the French legal framework at the end of life would shift once again. Over the past two decades, French legislation on end-of-life issues had already been loosened several times.

Supporters See Self-Determination Strengthened

Supporters of the reform argue that people with incurable illnesses should be able to decide for themselves to shorten their suffering. They view the law as an act of self-determination at the end of life and an expression of the dignity of seriously ill patients.

Critics Warn of Pressure on the Sick

Critics, by contrast, view the project with grave concern. The French Bishops' Conference (Conférence des évêques de France) is among the voices warning that the possibility of assisted suicide could open the door to abuse. It fears that people who are gravely ill could come under pressure not to want to be a burden.

Reform Split Into Two Parts

The reform was originally conceived as one of the defining legislative projects of the second term of President Emmanuel Macron. Due to the political controversy, it was divided into two parts: in the previous month, the French parliament had already passed a law further strengthening palliative care.

With the current vote, the project has in principle been approved in the National Assembly. Decisions on individual modalities and on further parliamentary handling will now be made by the remaining process. Observers expect further debates before the law can finally enter into force.

The reform is likely to send ripples through France beyond the parliamentary debate. While patient protection organizations hail the step as long overdue, church and conservative circles urge caution. In neighboring countries as well, the development is being watched with attention, as similar debates over euthanasia and assisted suicide are under way in several European states.