On May 27, 2025, France’s National Assembly (lower house of Parliament) approved a groundbreaking bill that would allow adults suffering from unbearable and incurable illnesses to choose assisted dying.
This means that, under strict conditions, some people will be able to request medical help to end their lives peacefully and with dignity. The bill passed with 305 votes in favour and 199 against.
Adults over 18 and living in France, can apply for assisted dying if they have a serious, incurable illness that causes constant physical or mental suffering, according to the bill. They must be able to make the decision themselves, without pressure from anyone else.
Before anything happens, a team of doctors will review the patient’s request. This process will take about 15 days. Then, there is a 2-day waiting period, to make sure the person is absolutely sure. If they still want to go ahead, they will be given medication. The patient can take it themselves, or a doctor or someone they trust can help them if they are physically unable.
Polls show that more than 90 per cent of people in France believe that those who are suffering without hope of recovery should have the right to die with dignity.
President Emmanuel Macron also supports the bill, according to reports. He said it gives people more control over their own lives and respects their personal wishes at the end of life. Most of the support for the bill came from centrist and left-wing politicians, while more conservative and religious groups opposed it.
Some doctors and religious leaders have raised concerns that the law could be misused, or that vulnerable people might feel pressured. They also argue that more needs to be done to improve palliative care — the medical support given to people who are nearing the end of life.
To address these concerns, lawmakers passed another law on the same day. This second law promises to improve palliative care across France, so that all patients can get proper support, whether they choose assisted dying or not.
Meanwhile, the bill will now move to the Senate, where it will be debated again. If it is approved, the law could take full effect by 2026.
With this move, France may soon join countries like Belgium and the Netherlands, where assisted dying is already legal.