In most Council of Europe member states, active euthanasia is illegal, as is assisting suicide. Now that two countries, the Netherlands followed by Belgium, have decided to amend their legislation to enable doctors to bring a person's life to an end and if certain conditions are fulfilled, questions are being asked in other European countries about the advisability of making such acts lawful. Today, the subject gives rise to lively debate both in professional circles and among members of the public.

After a first volume which analysed the various ethical and human aspects of the euthanasia debate, this second volume takes a detailed look at the practical and legal situation in eight European countries and the United States, as well as taking stock of the discussions taking place throughout Europe on various aspects of the end of life.



Contents


Contributors
Preface by Walter Schwimmer

EUTHANASIA IN EUROPE AND THE UNITED STATES
Belgium : evolution of the debate
Denmark : The right to self-determination
Georgia : End-of-life care
Hungary : An upcoming debate
The Netherlands : Euthanasia as a last resort
Portugal : Euthanasia : not ethically permissible
Switzerland : Defending assisted death
United Kingdom : The illegality of euthanasia
United States : Euthanasia, assisted suicide and the "right to die"

THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE AND EUTHANASIA
Recommendation 1418 : The position of the Council of Europe
Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly Hearing on Euthanasia
The law and practices of Council of Europe member states concerning euthanasia
The need for more palliative care

APPENDICES