Screens display the results of the vote on a bill on the right to euthanasia in the National Assembly in Paris, France, July 15, 2026.Image: keystone
July 15, 2026, 9:07 p.mJuly 15, 2026, 9:07 p.m
In France, euthanasia for seriously ill people will in future be permitted according to strictly defined rules. After a long parliamentary debate, the National Assembly in Paris passed a law with 291 yes and 241 no votes that opens up the possibility of assisted suicide for terminally ill patients in an advanced stage and with unbearable suffering. This also applies if the sick person stops or refuses treatment. However, the sick person must be able to freely and clearly express their wish for euthanasia to a doctor and be aware of the implications.
The procedure stipulates that an interdisciplinary committee with medical participation examines the request for euthanasia and the doctor informs the patient of the result within two weeks. The person must confirm his wish for euthanasia after two days of reflection. The law requires the patient to take the lethal drug themselves unless they are physically unable to do so. In this case, the action is carried out by a doctor or nurse. They can refuse to participate in euthanasia for reasons of conscience and refer them to professional colleagues.
Law with numerous restrictions
French law provides for numerous provisions and restrictions. Only French citizens aged 18 and over living permanently in France can use the euthanasia option. Mental illness alone does not give rise to the possibility of euthanasia. Those affected must be made aware of the possibility of palliative care and can actually use it if they wish. Before the law comes into force, it will be reviewed by the Constitutional Council at the request of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
In Germany, active euthanasia – killing on request, for example with an injection – is punishable. However, discontinuing life-sustaining measures is permitted if this corresponds to the patient’s wishes. Assisting suicide is also exempt from punishment – it can consist of obtaining or providing a lethal drug that the patient takes himself. There has been a struggle in Germany for years over legal regulations regarding so-called assisted suicide. (sda/dpa)