Suicide tourism: a pilot study on the Swiss phenomenon

Area of Science:

• Medical Law
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Assisted suicide (AS) is legally restricted globally, yet Switzerland lacks clear regulation.
• This regulatory gap attracts individuals seeking AS, termed 'suicide tourists,' primarily to Zurich.
• The phenomenon prompts international political debate and legal scrutiny.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail characteristics of assisted suicide tourists (age, gender, origin, cause).
• To identify source countries and examine their laws for potential regulatory changes due to suicide tourism.
• To compare current findings with previous Zurich-based studies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of Zurich Institute of Legal Medicine database (2008-2012) for non-Swiss residents.
• Internet research on legislation and political discourse in key foreign countries.
• Analysis of 611 cases from 31 countries.

Main Results:

• Assisted suicide tourists originated from 31 countries globally.
• Increasing prevalence of non-terminal conditions (neurological, rheumatic) cited as reasons for AS.
• Data suggests a potential impact on foreign legislative amendments or guidelines.

Conclusions:

• Suicide tourism in Switzerland is a significant issue with international implications.
• The trend may influence regulatory frameworks in originating countries.
• Further research is needed to understand the evolving motivations and legal consequences.