On Friday, British lawmakers voted to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill patients in England and Wales, under strict conditions, marking a historic moment for the country.
After five hours of debate in the House of Commons, the proposal passed with a vote of 330 to 275. This law would allow doctors to assist patients who have less than six months to live in ending their lives.
However, this vote is not the final decision. The bill will undergo further scrutiny in parliamentary committees, where amendments may be proposed. Nevertheless, it represents a significant political shift, drawing comparisons to the landmark changes of the 1960s, such as the legalization of abortion and the abolition of the death penalty.
Assisted dying is already legal in several European countries, Canada, New Zealand, and in 10 U.S. states. The decision in the UK follows intense public debate, reflecting a deep ethical divide. The legislation would apply only to a select group of people: those over 18, diagnosed with a terminal illness, and given six months or less to live. A judge, along with two doctors, would need to approve the decision, and the drugs for euthanasia would have to be self-administered by the patient.
The bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, allows MPs to vote based on their personal beliefs. Supporters argue that assisted dying offers a compassionate way to end unbearable suffering, while opponents warn that it could pressure vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or disabled, into premature death.
Leadbeater emphasized that the bill addresses one of the most pressing issues of the time, offering a compassionate alternative to the suffering many terminally ill people face. Under current law, those who assist in ending a life risk prosecution, even if the person is terminally ill. As a result, many Britons travel to countries like Switzerland for assisted suicide, leaving their families at risk of legal consequences.
Supporters of the bill, like Conservative MP Kit Malthouse, argued that current deathbeds are often filled with intense suffering, while critics, such as Labour MP Meg Hillier, warned that the bill would fundamentally alter the relationship between the state, patients, and doctors.
Religious leaders and some government ministers, including the justice and health secretaries, have voiced opposition, citing concerns over cost and the lack of sufficient palliative care services.
Despite these objections, public opinion strongly favors assisted dying, with 65% of Britons in support.
