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 death, encompassing euthanasia and assisted suicide for individuals enduring severe, irreversible suffering. The legislation passed its third reading with 291 votes in favor, overcoming 241 opposition votes.

This definitive vote concludes a challenging legislative process. The bill, initially proposed by President Emmanuel Macron as a significant social advancement for his final term ending in May 2027, had previously passed the lower house twice but was rejected by the Senate, which holds a conservative majority, on two occasions.

Despite the parliamentary approval, the law's fate remains subject to review by the Constitutional Council. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has raised concerns about certain provisions, including the mandatory two-day reflection period for patients. President Macron acknowledged the ongoing legal process, stating that challenges to the Constitutional Council would proceed according to the rule of law, and he thanked lawmakers for their constructive debate.

The Catholic Church in France has voiced strong opposition, calling the law a "grave rupture" in the nation's history. In a statement, the Church warned of the potential consequences for how society views vulnerability, old age, disability, and illness.

The approved text, championed by independent left-wing deputy Olivier Falorni, allows for assisted death to be administered by a doctor or nurse for individuals over 18 who are French nationals or residents. Eligibility requires suffering from a serious, incurable illness with a compromised prognosis, experiencing irreversible deterioration, and enduring unbearable suffering that cannot be alleviated.

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The proposition de loi relative au droit à l'aide à mourir est adoptée. Sur cette question aussi intime que grave, qui touche à la vie, à la souffrance et à la dignité, une seule méthode était possible : prendre le temps de l’écoute, du dialogue et du débat.