The Case Against Legalizing Medically Assisted Suicide or Voluntary Active Euthanasia in Islamic Regions

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Islamic Studies
• Public Policy

Background:

• Medically assisted suicide (MAS) and voluntary active euthanasia (VAE) are debated globally.
• Islamic regions possess distinct moral and ethical frameworks influencing end-of-life care decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present arguments against the legalization of MAS and VAE in Islamic regions.
• To analyze the compatibility of MAS and VAE with Islamic moral convictions and bioethical codes.
• To explore policy implications for diverse populations within Islamic regions.

Main Methods:

• Argumentative essay based on Islamic jurisprudence and bioethical principles.
• Case study analysis focusing on Bangladesh as an example of an Islamic region.
• Ethical justification for non-legalization policies.

Main Results:

• Legalizing MAS and VAE in Islamic regions contradicts core Islamic teachings on the sanctity of life.
• Islamic bioethical codes emphasize life preservation and quality palliative care, not hastened death.
• A non-legalization policy can be ethically implemented without disregarding minority or secular viewpoints.

Conclusions:

• MAS and VAE should not be legalized in Islamic regions due to ethical and religious conflicts.
• End-of-life care policies must be sensitive to the predominant moral culture while accommodating diversity.
• Prioritizing palliative care and life affirmation aligns with Islamic values and ethical bioethical considerations.