Portuguese Parliament Approves Euthanasia Law
Portugal Approves Law Regulating Medical-Assisted Death
The Portuguese parliament has finally passed a law regulating medical-assisted death. The law has been approved several times by a large majority over the years but was returned each time by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The president had reservations about the legislation, which stalled its implementation.
The new law permits people over the age of 18 to seek medical assistance if they are terminally ill and in excruciating pain. The Portuguese Socialist Party, which supported the legislation, described it as a much-needed development.
Isabel Moreira, a Member of Parliament for the Socialist Party, said, “We approve a law that has already been approved several times by a large majority.” She advocated for the law, which has been in development for years, to be passed.
Portugal becomes the latest country to adopt euthanasia legislation. Other countries where the practice is legal include Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, and Australia.
