France definitively approves law legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide

France's National Assembly has given final approval to a law establishing the right to assisted dying, which includes the regulation of euthanasia and assisted suicide for individuals facing severe, irreversible illnesses and profound suffering. The legislation passed its third reading with 291 votes in favor, overcoming 241 votes against.

This definitive vote marks the end of a challenging legislative journey. The bill, initially proposed by President Emmanuel Macron as a key social reform for his second and final term, had been approved twice by the National Assembly since 2025 but was twice blocked by the conservative-majority Senate. The law is now set to undergo scrutiny by the Constitutional Council, initiated by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who has expressed reservations about specific aspects, including the mandatory two-day reflection period for patients.

President Macron acknowledged the ongoing legal review, stating that "challenges to the Constitutional Council will proceed in accordance with the principles of our rule of law." He also expressed gratitude to the parliamentarians for fostering a constructive and respectful debate. The law, championed by independent left-wing deputy Olivier Falorni, allows for assisted dying to be administered by a doctor or nurse, exceptionally, if the individual is physically unable to act.

Eligibility requires individuals to be over 18, French nationals or residents, and suffering from serious, incurable diseases with a compromised vital prognosis or irreversible health deterioration. The condition must involve unbearable physical or psychological suffering, not solely psychological distress without a severe underlying physical pathology. Applicants must possess full discernment and be capable of expressing their will freely and consciously at the time of the request. The process involves a formal written request to a doctor, followed by a collegial evaluation before a motivated response is issued.