Assisted dying usually applies to patients suffering terminal illnesses who choose to die more peacefully. The practice is hotly contested and still illegal in most of the world. However, a handful of countries allow the practice, and others are considering its legalization.Â
Where it's legal Belgium legalized assisted death in 2002 and has more open laws than other nations. The country allows foreigners to submit end-of-life requests, making it a haven for neighboring countries. In addition, people can "make advance directives so that assisted dying can be administered in accordance with their wishes," said Forbes.Â
Colombia legalized euthanasia for terminally ill adult patients in 2014. By 2018, the country approved the practice for children over age 6, not requiring parental consent past the age of 14. In 2022, the country decriminalized assisted suicide for people who "suffer from severe health conditions that patients consider a threat to their dignity," even if they are not terminal, said Colombia Reports.Â
Luxembourg legalized assisted suicide and euthanasia in 2009 for a person suffering from an "incurable condition … constantly in unbearable physical or mental pain," the Library of Congress said. Parental consent is required for those between the ages of 16 and 18, and assisted dying is not permitted for anyone younger than 16.
Where it's under review Australia legalized assisted dying in all of its states by 2022. However, it's not legal in the country's Northern and Australian Capital Territories. That could change soon. In December 2022, "commonwealth laws that stopped the territories from making new laws on voluntary assisted dying were repealed, which opens a pathway to potential future legalization," said The Guardian.
In the United States, assisted dying is legal in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, New Mexico, New Jersey, Oregon, Vermont, Washington state and Washington, D.C. Close to 20 other states are considering bills legalizing it as well. "These bills typically allow people with six months or less to live to request prescriptions from a doctor that they can take at home if and when they decide to end their lives," said Axios. |