French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled plans to propose legislation legalizing "aid in dying" for terminally ill individuals in France. In an interview published on Monday, Macron disclosed his intentions to introduce the bill to the National Assembly in May, citing strong public support revealed by recent polls.
The proposed law, as outlined by Macron in an interview with French newspaper Liberation, will focus on providing assistance to adults suffering from short to medium-term illnesses, particularly those in the final stages of conditions like cancer. Macron emphasized that the bill would establish strict conditions for aid in dying, marking a significant shift in French legislation.
The initiative follows Macron's earlier announcement in autumn and subsequent consultations, during which a majority expressed support for legislation on assisted suicide. The proposed bill would allow terminally ill adults to request a lethal substance, which they could administer themselves or with the assistance of a third party.
Macron detailed that medical experts would have 15 days to respond to such requests, with approval valid for three months, during which patients could retract their decision if desired. In cases of rejection by medical professionals, patients would have the option to seek assistance from another medical team or appeal the decision.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal confirmed that the bill would be presented to the French Parliament starting May 27, stressing the importance of addressing end-of-life care openly and breaking the taboo surrounding death.
The debate surrounding assisted dying has long been contentious across Europe, with varying opinions on ethical and moral implications. Macron refrained from categorizing the proposed aid as "euthanasia" or "assisted suicide," highlighting distinctions between the two practices.
France's Catholic bishops have expressed strong opposition to the bill, warning of potential consequences for the healthcare system. However, proponents argue that the legislation would offer a dignified end to those suffering from incurable illnesses.
The proposed bill builds upon the recommendations of a citizen's convention convened in 2022, reflecting the views of randomly appointed French citizens who deliberated on the issue over two years. Last week, the French Parliament's decision to enshrine the right to abortion in the constitution marked another significant legislative development, endorsed by President Macron.
