Euthanasia, assistance to suicide and the law: developments in The Netherlands

In this article the developments in euthanasia in The Netherlands are discussed. To a large extent unanimity has been reached about the definition of euthanasia. Since 1973 the courts have become involved in euthanasia cases. The lower courts and the Supreme Court allowed for euthanasia on request under certain conditions. In 1982 a State Committee on Euthanasia was established. This Committee made a proposal of a law on euthanasia and assistance to suicide on request. The Committee delineated requirements to be followed for euthanasia not to be punishable. Although a majority of the Dutch population is in favour of a liberalizing legislation, the political situation delays its adoption.