France’s ‘aid in dying’ law comes into effect after constitutional approval
Summary
France has officially started a law allowing adults with incurable illnesses to choose assisted dying. The law sets rules for who can qualify, involves medical checks, and includes a waiting period before the procedure can happen.Key Facts
- The law applies to adults who are French or long-term residents with incurable diseases causing unbearable pain.
- A doctor evaluates the patient first, then a panel confirms if the patient meets the criteria.
- Patients must wait at least two days after approval and confirm their choice on the day of assisted dying.
- Patients usually must take the lethal substance themselves, but a healthcare worker can help if the patient cannot do it alone.
- France previously allowed passive euthanasia (like stopping life support) but not active assisted dying.
- The constitutional council approved the law but added rules to protect healthcare workers who refuse to participate for ethical reasons.
- Some groups oppose the law, worried it could harm vulnerable people such as those with disabilities.
- The law was supported by President Emmanuel Macron, who said it resulted from a careful democratic process.
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