France’s National Assembly has successfully passed a bill legalizing assisted dying under stringent criteria, marking the conclusion of years of intense political deliberation. Legislators voted 291 to 241 in favor of the measure, which had previously faced rejection on three occasions by the Senate, the country’s upper house.
Under the new provisions, French adults suffering from serious, incurable, and terminal illnesses—characterized by unbearable physical or psychological pain resistant to standard medical intervention—may request the procedure. The process requires the patient to clearly state their intent to a physician. If approved after a 15-day review, the patient must personally administer a lethal substance, though doctors or nurses may intervene if the individual is physically unable to do so.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced plans to refer specific sections of the bill to the Constitutional Council to ensure legal compliance. Key areas for review include the adequacy of the mandatory two-day reflection period, the criteria for informed consent among patients with impaired decision-making capabilities, and the integration of these services within palliative care facilities. While the public generally supports the initiative, it remains a point of contention among medical professionals and religious groups.
