French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced that the assisted dying bill will be referred to the country’s Constitutional Council before it is finalized. The decision was made in coordination with French President Emmanuel Macron.
According to Zharfa News Agency, France’s National Assembly was expected to pass the bill on Wednesday, July 15, which would recognize, for the first time, the “right to receive assistance in ending one’s life.” However, Lecornu said certain parts of the text—particularly the two-day reflection period required before a final decision—remain controversial.
Under the law, adult patients suffering from severe, incurable illnesses in their terminal stages may, under specific conditions and with medical supervision, use a lethal substance to end their lives. Requests must be submitted in writing and reviewed by a multidisciplinary committee.
The legislation also includes safeguards against abuse, including the ability to withdraw the request at any stage and oversight by the Ministry of Health. Physicians and nurses will retain the right to conscientious objection and may decline to participate.
