Euthanasia and assisted suicide are complex and controversial topics that involve the deliberate ending of a person’s life to relieve suffering. The legalities surrounding these practices vary across different countries and jurisdictions. While some countries have legalized euthanasia or assisted suicide under specific conditions, others have strict laws prohibiting these practices.
Legalization and Safeguards
In a small number of countries and states, euthanasia or assisted suicide, or both, have been legalized. However, in all jurisdictions, laws and safeguards have been put in place to prevent abuse and misuse of these practices . These safeguards typically include measures such as explicit consent by the person requesting euthanasia, mandatory reporting of all cases, administration only by physicians (with exceptions in some cases), and consultation by a second physician .
Transgressions and Prosecution
Despite the presence of laws and safeguards, evidence suggests that these regulations are regularly ignored and transgressed in various jurisdictions, and transgressions are often not prosecuted . For example, in some cases, individuals are administered lethal substances without explicit consent, and a significant percentage of euthanasia cases are not reported .
Global Variations
The legal status of euthanasia and assisted suicide varies across different countries. Here are a few examples:
Chile: Active euthanasia or assisted suicide is not legal in Chile. However, passive euthanasia, which involves the right to refuse medical treatment, is legal .
Colombia: The legal status of euthanasia and assisted suicide in Colombia is unclear, as there are ongoing discussions and debates regarding a bill to allow active euthanasia and assisted suicide .
Netherlands: In the Netherlands, euthanasia and assisted suicide are legal under specific conditions. The physician must fulfill statutory due care criteria, and every instance of euthanasia and assisted suicide must be reported to regional euthanasia review committees .
United Kingdom: Both euthanasia and assisted suicide are illegal under English law. Assisted suicide is punishable by up to 14 years’ imprisonment, while euthanasia is considered a criminal act .
It’s important to note that the legal status and specific regulations surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide can change over time, as laws and societal attitudes evolve.
Public Opinion
Public opinion on euthanasia and assisted suicide varies across different countries and regions. Opinions appear to be growing in favor of these practices in some places, while others remain opposed. For example, a survey conducted in 74 countries found that 65% of respondents voted against physician-assisted suicide, while in the United States, a Gallup poll indicated that 73% of respondents were in favor of euthanasia .