France Passes Assisted Dying Bill, Awaits Constitutional Review

France’s National Assembly has approved a bill to legalise assisted dying for eligible terminally ill adults, marking a major step after years of political debate.

Lawmakers voted 291 to 241 in favour of the legislation, which would allow mentally competent adults with a serious, incurable and life-threatening illness in an advanced or terminal stage to request assisted dying under strict conditions.

Under the proposal, a patient must make a voluntary request to a doctor, who will decide after consultations within 15 days. Following a mandatory two-day reflection period, the patient must administer the life-ending substance themselves, unless physically unable, in which case a doctor or nurse may assist.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said parts of the bill will be referred to France’s Constitutional Council before it can become law. The review will examine issues including the two-day waiting period, consent by patients under legal protection, and the role of palliative care facilities.

The measure has faced strong opposition from the Catholic Church, some medical professionals and conservative lawmakers, despite opinion polls showing broad public support. If enacted, France will join several European countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium, that permit assisted dying under regulated circumstances.