PARIS - France is moving closer to a fundamental change in its approach to ending the lives of terminally ill patients. The French National Assembly has approved a law that, under strictly defined conditions, will allow for euthanasia, or access to medication leading to death. The proposal was supported by 291 members of parliament, while 241 voted against it. This is one of the most significant ethical and healthcare laws in recent years, which also fulfills a promise made by President Emmanuel Macron three years ago.
The new legal framework stipulates that only adult patients suffering from an incurable disease, whose condition is deemed hopeless by doctors, and whose physical or psychological suffering is considered unbearable, will be eligible to request the end of their life. The law also clearly defines situations in which it does not apply. Mental disorders alone, nor Alzheimer's disease, will not be grounds for approving a request.
The process of approving a request will be subject to several control mechanisms. The validity of the request will be assessed for 15 days. If approved, there is then a mandatory two-day period for reflection before making a final decision. The aim of this procedure is to ensure that the patient's decision is made freely and without time pressure.
According to the approved proposal, the patient must administer the lethal substance themselves. An exception is possible only in cases where their physical health prevents them from doing so. In such cases, medical personnel may assist with the administration. All costs associated with this procedure will be covered by the French state.
The adoption of the law concludes a long-standing social and political debate that has divided the public and experts in France. Public opinion polls have consistently shown that most French people support the legalization of euthanasia, especially as an option for a dignified end to life in cases of incurable diseases.
On the other hand, there is criticism from some medical organizations, religious leaders, and advocates for seniors and people with disabilities. They point out the possible risk of indirect pressure on vulnerable individuals or the gradual expansion of conditions for using this institution in the future.
Although the French Senate rejected the bill, according to the legislative process, the National Assembly had the final say, and it approved the law. The document now awaits review by the Constitutional Council, which will assess its compliance with the French Constitution. If not found unconstitutional, France will join European countries that allow terminally ill patients to legally end their lives under strictly defined conditions.
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