France approves assisted dying bill for terminally ill adults

France has taken a historic step by approving legislation that will allow certain terminally ill adults to seek medically assisted dying under strict legal conditions. The National Assembly gave final approval to the bill after years of political debate, public consultations, and discussions over patients’ rights and end-of-life care.

The new law is designed for adults suffering from incurable illnesses that have reached an advanced or terminal stage. Lawmakers said the legislation aims to provide an additional option for people experiencing unbearable suffering while ensuring strong legal and medical safeguards.

Under the approved measure, eligible patients will be allowed to request access to life-ending medication. However, the request will only be granted after all legal requirements and medical conditions have been carefully reviewed. Authorities say the process will include strict assessments to ensure that applicants meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the law.

The legislation states that patients who are physically capable must administer the medication themselves. If a patient’s medical condition prevents them from doing so, a doctor or a qualified nurse will be permitted to administer the medication on their behalf.

Only adults who are French citizens or legal residents of France will qualify for the assisted dying programme. In addition, applicants must be diagnosed with a serious and incurable illness that has progressed to an advanced or terminal stage. The law is intended to apply only to patients whose condition cannot be cured and who meet all medical and legal requirements.

The approval of the bill marks a major change in France’s approach to end-of-life care. Supporters argue that it strengthens patient autonomy and gives terminally ill individuals greater control over their final stages of life. Critics, however, have raised ethical concerns and continue to call for stronger protections for vulnerable patients.

The legislation is expected to reshape end-of-life medical care in France once it comes into force, with health authorities preparing detailed procedures for its implementation.