France moves closer to legalising assisted dying

France’s National Assembly has approved a landmark bill to legalise assisted dying, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to end-of-life care after years of intense political and ethical debate.

The legislation was passed on Wednesday by 291 votes to 241, paving the way for eligible patients suffering from incurable illnesses to seek medical assistance to end their lives under tightly regulated conditions.

The vote follows months of parliamentary deliberations and years of public discussion over whether France should allow assisted dying, an issue that has divided politicians, religious groups, medical professionals and campaigners.

Under the proposed law, only adults diagnosed with a serious and incurable illness that causes persistent, unbearable suffering would qualify. Applicants must be capable of making a voluntary and informed decision, and several medical assessments would be required before approval is granted.

The bill also provides that patients who are physically unable to administer the life-ending medication themselves may receive assistance from a healthcare professional.

President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the outcome, describing it as an important stage in reforming France’s end-of-life legislation while maintaining safeguards for vulnerable people.

Supporters argued that the measure respects individual dignity and personal choice, saying it offers compassionate relief for those enduring unbearable suffering with no prospect of recovery.

Opponents, however, warned that legalising assisted dying could expose vulnerable patients to pressure and alter the role of doctors. Several conservative politicians and religious organisations voiced concern that the legislation could weaken protections for the seriously ill and elderly.

The bill is expected to undergo a review by France’s Constitutional Council before it can become law. If it clears that hurdle, France will join a growing number of countries that permit some form of medically assisted dying under strict legal conditi