Euthanasia law in France: Security measures being removed, concerns growing

On Tuesday, 30 Haziran 2026, the Fransa Ulusal Meclisi adopted the assisted dying bill in its second reading by a vote of 295 to 232. The text, which will pass through the Senato once more in the coming days, is being prepared for a final vote on 15 Temmuz at the Palais Bourbon. Although this regulation, presented by the government as the 'Fransız modeli', displays a humanitarian approach, many legal experts and healthcare workers are concerned about the removal of security measures one by one. Critics argue that the law is heading down a path similar to the documented misuse cases in Kanada and Belçika.

The bill includes conditions such as the patient requesting it of their own free will, having an incurable disease, and suffering unbearable pain. However, critics state that these conditions are not strict enough, and that the inclusion of psychological pain in particular widens the scope. Furthermore, it is expressed that physicians' right to conscientious objection has been weakened and that questioning the patient's request has been made more difficult. This situation raises concerns that it could create indirect pressure, especially on the elderly and people with disabilities.

Experiences in Kanada and Belçika show that the scope of euthanasia laws expands over time and security measures erode. The law adopted in Kanada in 2016 initially covered only cases where death was imminent, but was expanded in 2021 to include situations where death was not foreseeable. In Belçika, euthanasia has been made possible for vulnerable groups such as children and dementia patients. It is feared that the new regulation in Fransa could lead to a similar expansion.

Opponents of the law emphasize that the text has not been sufficiently debated and has caused a deep division in society. While religious groups and some physician organizations argue that the law violates the right to life, patient rights associations state that the individual's right to determine their own destiny should be prioritized. Polls show that the majority of the French people support euthanasia under limited conditions, but are against expanded applications.

The debates to be held in the Senato in the coming days will determine the final shape of the law. The government aims for the text to enter into force by the end of the year. However, the opposition and civil society organizations plan to apply to the Anayasa Konseyi and, if necessary, demand a referendum. With this law, Fransa joins the countries in Europe that allow euthanasia, while the debates are expected to continue for a long time.