French Parliament approves landmark assisted-dying bill

France has taken a significant legislative step toward legalizing assisted dying after the lower house of parliament adopted the measure by a narrow margin. The bill establishes a legal framework allowing adults facing unbearable suffering from incurable, life-threatening conditions to request a lethal substance, which may be self-administered or provided by healthcare professionals if the patient cannot do so independently.

The legislation imposes strict eligibility criteria. Access is limited to French citizens or legal residents experiencing constant physical or psychological suffering from advanced or terminal illnesses. Patients must demonstrate full capacity to make free and informed decisions about their own deaths. President Emmanuel Macron framed the vote as fulfilling a 2022 campaign commitment, emphasizing the government's approach of dialogue and democratic deliberation on this deeply personal issue.

Support for the measure centers on patient autonomy and dignity at life's end. Advocates argue the law provides necessary safeguards while respecting individual choice when suffering becomes unbearable. Opposition has come from conservative lawmakers and religious institutions, including the Catholic Church, which contend legalization risks abuse and undermines societal duty to protect vulnerable populations.

The legislation still requires approval from France's Constitutional Council before taking effect. If approved, France would join the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada in permitting assisted dying. The Senate, where conservatives hold a majority, voted against the bill, but the National Assembly retains final legislative authority on the measure.