France’s National Assembly has taken a historic step by passing a bill that could legalize assisted dying for terminally ill patients facing unbearable suffering. The vote — 305 in favor, 199 against — follows intense debate and reflects growing support for end-of-life choices, despite the country’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions.
The proposed law, which still needs Senate approval and a second Assembly vote, would allow adults with irreversible, life-threatening conditions to request medically assisted death — but only under strict conditions. Patients must be mentally sound, in constant physical or psychological pain, and capable of making a fully informed decision.
Crucially, lawmakers also unanimously backed a separate law strengthening access to palliative care, reinforcing the government’s message that the bill is about ethical balance, not encouraging death.
The move has stirred strong emotions nationwide. Supporters hail it as a “social advance,” while critics — including many healthcare professionals — argue that bolstering end-of-life care should come first.
If passed, France will join countries like Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands, where assisted dying is already legal. Opinion polls show most French citizens support the measure, signaling a significant shift in public sentiment.
