France's lower house approves 'aid in dying' bill

France's National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, has approved a bill that would allow terminally ill and suffering individuals to request lethal substances, a measure proponents hail as a significant social reform.

The bill passed with 295 votes in favor and 232 against. Minister for Parliamentary Relations Laurent Panifous described the legislation as a crucial social transformation and one of the most important reforms in a decade. However, opponents, primarily from the right and far-right, view it as a shift in fundamental principles and values.

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France faces an important social transformation, and this will be one of the most important reforms in the last ten years.

The approved text specifies that eligibility is for individuals suffering from a serious, incurable, life-threatening illness in an advanced or terminal stage, causing unbearable physical or psychological suffering. The person must be an adult and capable of freely and clearly expressing their will.

During debates, approximately 1,800 amendments were discussed. The final version stipulates that the patient should administer the lethal substance themselves, with medical or nursing assistance only permitted if the patient is physically unable to do so. The bill is scheduled for a final vote by both houses of parliament on July 15. If enacted, France would join other European countries in legalizing assisted dying.

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in all countries where (such) a project has been adopted, the criteria have later become increasingly flexible regarding the application of 'aid in dying.'