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Slovenia has emerged as the newest nation to legalise assisted dying for adults with incurable illnesses who are suffering unbearably and have no hope of recovery. The legislation was voted on Friday by the parliament of the country, as there is increasing worldwide momentum regarding end-of-life rights.
The bill was passed with 50 lawmakers voting for it, 34 against, and three abstaining. This comes after a non-binding public referendum held in the previous year, where 55% of the people voted for the shift to permit assisted dying.
The new law is set as reported by the Slovenian Press Agency (STA) to have stringent conditions. The patients must have used all treatment avenues available before they can have their assisted death. On top of that, mentally ill persons will not qualify regardless of them reporting unbearable suffering.
By this ruling, Slovenia becomes the latest nation, alongside Australia, Canada, Belgium, and the Netherlands, in which assisted dying is legal on certain grounds. A number of states in the US also permit the practice. The House of Commons has recently voted to legalize assisted dying in the United Kingdom, although the bill has yet to be approved by the House of Lords.
Even though the Slovenian parliament voted to make the law, not everyone sees eye to eye. An opposition civil society group has announced plans to start a campaign to rally people behind a referendum that might reverse the legislation.
Proponents have said the new law is maintaining personal choice and dignity for individuals suffering unbearably near the end of life. Critics, on the other hand, have expressed worries regarding ethical limits and abuse.
The new law is a major change in Slovenia’s policy on end-of-life care and brings the country into line with an increasing global trend towards legalising assisted dying under strict controls.
