French lawmakers have taken a significant step towards legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill patients. In a recent vote, the National Assembly backed a bill that allows individuals in the final stages of a terminal illness to choose assisted dying. The bill received strong support, passing with 305 votes in favor and 199 against. It now moves to the Senate for further consideration before returning to the National Assembly for a second reading. If all goes well, supporters hope the law will be enacted by 2027.
This legislation would make France the eighth country in the European Union to permit some form of assisted dying. However, the proposed French law is expected to be more restrictive than those in the Netherlands and Belgium, which were among the first to legalize such practices in Europe.
The bill outlines specific criteria for eligibility. It applies to patients suffering from a serious and incurable disease that poses a life-threatening risk and who are experiencing constant physical or psychological suffering. To qualify, patients must be able to clearly express their wish to die, wait 48 hours, and then confirm their decision.
Once approved, the patient would self-administer a lethal dose of medication. If they are unable to do so, a medical professional could assist. A doctor must authorize the process after consulting with other medical peers.
The vote reflected the divided opinions on this sensitive issue. MPs were allowed to vote freely, leading to a mix of support primarily from centrist and left-leaning parties, while right-wing groups largely opposed the measure. Critics, including conservative lawmakers and representatives of the Catholic Church, voiced concerns that the bill’s definitions could be too broad, potentially allowing assisted dying for patients who might still have years to live.
Opponents also worry about vulnerable individuals feeling pressured to choose assisted dying to ease the burden on their families. Demonstrators gathered outside the National Assembly, with one woman suffering from Parkinson’s disease describing the law as a "loaded pistol left on my bedside table."
In addition to the assisted dying bill, lawmakers also passed a separate measure to ensure the right to palliative care, as nearly half of French patients in need of such care currently do not receive it. President Emmanuel Macron praised the approval of both bills as an important step forward, emphasizing the need for respect and understanding around these sensitive issues.
The debate surrounding assisted dying laws continues to evoke strong feelings across the political spectrum, with some advocating for broader access, including for minors and non-French nationals. Medical staff who oppose assisted dying will not be required to participate, but any attempt to obstruct the process could lead to criminal charges.