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Canada Considers MAiD Expansion to Minors Amid Controversy

11/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Advocates in Canada push to expand the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program to include minors as young as 12.
MAiD has been legal since 2016.
It was originally available only to adults with foreseeable natural deaths.
Critics, including Dr. Aaron Kheriaty, a psychiatrist, warn of a slippery slope and say vulnerable individuals may feel pressured.
In 2023, more than 15,000 Canadians died by MAiD, accounting for 4.7% of all deaths.

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Story summary

Advocates in Canada push to expand the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) program to include minors as young as 12.
MAiD has been legal since 2016.
It was originally available only to adults with foreseeable natural deaths.
Critics, including Dr. Aaron Kheriaty, a psychiatrist, warn of a slippery slope and say vulnerable individuals may feel pressured.
In 2023, more than 15,000 Canadians died by MAiD, accounting for 4.7% of all deaths.