Key facts
- France has enacted a law allowing assisted dying for incurably ill adults.
- Patients must be French nationals or long-term residents suffering from incurable conditions causing unbearable pain.
- A doctor must verify eligibility, and a panel must approve the request.
- A minimum two-day waiting period is required after approval.
- Patients must administer the lethal substance themselves unless physically unable.
- Healthcare professionals and institutions can refuse participation based on conscience.
France has officially enacted legislation that grants eligible adults suffering from incurable conditions the right to assisted dying. The law, published in the official journal following approval by the country's highest constitutional authority, establishes a framework for end-of-life assistance, positioning France alongside nations like the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada.
The legislation defines eligibility for patients who are French nationals or long-term residents and experiencing incurable conditions that cause unbearable pain. A rigorous process is in place, requiring a doctor to verify the patient's condition and a panel to assess whether all criteria are met. Following approval, patients must observe a minimum two-day waiting period before the procedure can occur and must reconfirm their decision on the day of the procedure.