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France Approves Assisted Dying Law, 84% Public Support

7/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The French National Assembly voted 291-241 to approve a right to assisted dying for adults with incurable illnesses.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the bill will be sent to France’s Constitutional Council for review.
President Emmanuel Macron posted on X that the law fulfills a second-term pledge after extensive dialogue.
An Ifop poll in February found 84 % of French respondents support the legislation.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 the Netherlands became the first country to legalize voluntary euthanasia, permitting doctors to act when patients suffer “hopeless and unbearable” pain and even allowing those over age 12 to request assistance. French debate, sparked by President Hollande’s 2013 support, led the 2024 National Assembly to vote on a similar law, echoing the Dutch model.

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Story summary

The French National Assembly voted 291-241 to approve a right to assisted dying for adults with incurable illnesses.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the bill will be sent to France’s Constitutional Council for review.
President Emmanuel Macron posted on X that the law fulfills a second-term pledge after extensive dialogue.
An Ifop poll in February found 84 % of French respondents support the legislation.

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