Switzerland expands an old framework
The confederation had decriminalized assisted suicide as early as 1937. In September, the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences (ASSM) and the Federation of Swiss Physicians (FMH) drew up a text which extends this possibility to people in the throes of extreme suffering, and not only at the end of life.
Belgium leaves the choice to the patient
Belgium decriminalized euthanasia in 2002, in certain situations. The request must come from the patient himself, either if he is capable and aware of it, or by virtue of an advance declaration. The act is performed by a doctor, following a strict protocol. But the practitioner has the right to refuse.
Spain followed suit
In May 2021, Spain authorized the patient to choose medically assisted death, if he suffers from a serious and incurable disease or from chronic pain placing him in a situation of incapacity. During the first year following the application of the law, the country recorded approximately 180 euthanasias.
Canada continues to debate
In June 2016, Canada made medical assistance in dying possible for adults whose death is “reasonably foreseeable”.
Since March 2021, it has also been accessible to patients with a serious and incurable illness or disability, “at an advanced stage of capacity decline that is irreversible” and victims of “unbearable physical or psychological suffering.”
