France’s parliament has approved landmark legislation creating a legal right to assisted dying for adults suffering from incurable illnesses, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to end-of-life care after years of intense public and political debate.
The bill, adopted by the National Assembly in a final vote of 291 to 241 on Wednesday, establishes a legal framework allowing eligible patients to receive a lethal substance under strict conditions. The medication may be self-administered or, if the patient is physically unable to do so, administered by a doctor or nurse.
Under the legislation, access will be limited to French citizens or legal residents who are adults living with a serious and incurable illness that is life-threatening and in an advanced or terminal stage. Eligible patients must also experience constant physical or psychological suffering linked to their condition and be capable of expressing a free and informed decision.
President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the outcome, saying the issue required careful consideration because it concerns “life, suffering and dignity.” He said he had fulfilled a commitment made in 2022 to guide the issue through a democratic process based on dialogue and debate.
The legislation has attracted broad public support. An Ifop poll published in February found that 84% of respondents backed the bill. Supporters argue the new law will give people facing unbearable suffering greater autonomy over the end of their lives while maintaining robust safeguards.
Anne Raynaud, a representative of France’s Association for the Right to Die in Dignity (ADMD), said the legislation would allow people to decide when and how they wish to die once their suffering can no longer be relieved.
However, the bill has also sparked strong opposition from parts of the medical profession, religious groups and conservative politicians. Critics argue that legalizing assisted dying could place pressure on vulnerable people, while the Catholic Church has been among the most vocal opponents, with one bishop warning he could deny communion to lawmakers who supported the measure.
Conservative presidential candidate and former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said a compassionate society should protect and care for its most vulnerable citizens rather than encourage assisted dying.
The legislation includes a multi-step approval process designed to ensure strict oversight. Patients must submit a formal request to a doctor, who will assess eligibility in consultation with at least one additional physician and another healthcare professional. If approved, the patient must confirm the request after a mandatory reflection period of at least two days.
Healthcare professionals who object to participating on ethical grounds will be allowed to opt out but will be required to refer patients to medical professionals willing to provide assistance.
Although the National Assembly had the final say after the Senate rejected the bill, the legislation could still undergo review by France’s Constitutional Council, which may amend its provisions before it takes effect.
