Emilia‑Romagna passes assisted‑suicide law, bishops voice strong opposition

On 23 July 2026 the Legislative Assembly of Italy’s Emilia‑Romagna region approved a law regulating access to medically assisted suicide (SMA). The measure makes Emilia‑Romagna the third Italian region – after Tuscany and Sardinia – to enact specific rules in the absence of national legislation.

The regional bishops, led by Monsignor Giacomo Morandi, president of the Conferenza Episcopale dell’Emilia‑Romagna (CEER), issued a declaration condemning the law. They argue that “procurement of death, whether direct or via assisted suicide, fundamentally conflicts with the value of the person, the purpose of the State and the medical profession.” While the text recognises a conscience objection for health‑care workers and mentions palliative care, the bishops contend that it does not address the real problem of suffering and could foster a culture that devalues life.

Regional President Michele De Pascale defended the legislation, saying it merely clarifies procedures already foreseen by the Constitutional Court and does not create new rights. Within weeks, fourteen formal requests for assisted suicide – mainly from patients with ALS or severe tetraplegia – were submitted. A multidisciplinary commission will review each case after patients are informed of all therapeutic alternatives, including palliative options.

The debate remains heated, with the Catholic Church emphasizing the need to strengthen palliative‑care networks and to protect life at all stages.