UK approves assisted suicide for patients with ‘incurable’ illnesses

The UK Parliament has approved a controversial proposal to allow terminally ill elderly patients with terminal mental illness to end their lives.

On Friday, November 29, Reuters reported that the Adults (End of Life) Bill was passed after months of discussion and received 330 votes in favor from British lawmakers.

Under the proposal, elderly patients who, based on medical assessment, are determined to have six months or less to live will be given the opportunity to make an end-of-life decision.

This law will only apply in England and Wales.

Countries such as Canada, New Zealand, Spain and several US states including Oregon, Washington and California have also legalized similar measures for assisted death.

Lawmakers described the bill as a humane and respectful response to the unbearable suffering of terminally ill patients deprived of treatment options.

However, the proposal has faced criticism due to its potential for abuse and concerns about its impact on vulnerable individuals in society.

The approval of this bill is a significant step in the ongoing debate about assisted dying. Some see it as an act of compassion, others remain concerned about its ethical implications.

As the law develops, it will be crucial to closely monitor its implementation to ensure it is used responsibly and does not disproportionately impact vulnerable groups in society.