Euthanasia and international human rights law: prolegomena for an international debate

In this paper we examine in what respects international human rights law can provide a basis for the establishment of an international debate on euthanasia. Such a debate seems imperative, as in many countries euthanasia is considered taboo in the context of medical practice, yet at the same time, supposedly, decisions are taken to intentionally shorten patients' lives. In the Netherlands, the act of euthanasia will not lead to the prosecution of the physician involved if the physician has complied with certain procedures. The Dutch debate centres on procedures marginalizing important moral aspects of euthanasia. An international debate, addressing the fundamental morality of euthanasia and of other medical decisions involving the end of life, will eventually enhance medical practice in the Netherlands as well as in other countries.