French Constitutional Council validates assisted dying law with reservations

On Friday, September 29, 2023, the French Constitutional Council approved the entire law concerning assisted dying. This legislation legalizes, under certain conditions, a form of assisted suicide and euthanasia, responding to requests from several citizens for a dignified end of life.

However, the Council issued three interpretative reservations. Among these, it highlights the freedom of private establishments regarding their participation in euthanasia or assisted suicides, which could influence the implementation of the law.

President Emmanuel Macron reacted to this decision, describing it as the culmination of an exemplary democratic debate in France. He stated that this validation would allow for certain progress toward the implementation of the reform, based on solid democratic, ethical, and constitutional principles.

This decision by the Constitutional Council marks a significant step in French legislation on end-of-life issues, following years of discussions and ethical considerations.

The reservations expressed by the Council also raise questions about the practical application of the law and the role of healthcare establishments, particularly private ones, within this new legislation.

The validation of the law by the Constitutional Council could lead to changes in how requests for assisted dying are handled, although concerns about the interpretation of the reservations remain.