UK takes first step toward legalizing euthanasia
Photo: UK Parliament backs legalization of euthanasia (Getty Images)
The UK Parliament has voted in favor of a bill to legalize assisted dying (euthanasia), paving the way for the most significant social change in the country in a generation, Reuters reports.
According to the agency, the bill was supported by 314 MPs, while 291 voted against it.
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) law would grant mentally competent, terminally ill adults in England and Wales, who are expected to live six months or less, the right to choose to end their lives with medical assistance.
The bill will now move to the House of Lords, where it is expected to face several months of debate and potential amendments. Despite possible changes, the unelected Lords are unlikely to block legislation passed by the elected members of the House of Commons.
If passed, the UK would join countries such as Australia, Canada, and certain US states where assisted dying is already legal.
Supporters of the bill argue it would provide dignity and compassion to those who are suffering. Opponents contend that terminally ill individuals may feel pressured to end their lives for fear of becoming a burden on their families or society.
In May of this year, the lower house of the French Parliament (the National Assembly) approved a similarly controversial euthanasia bill in its first reading.
Also, in January 2022, Austria enacted a law allowing euthanasia for terminally ill patients.
