France legalizes euthanasia, prompting strong church opposition

On 15 July 2026 the French National Assembly approved a law authorising assisted suicide and euthanasia after three years of debate. The final vote was 291 in favour, 241 against and 29 abstentions. President Emmanuel Macron backed the measure, which now awaits review by the Constitutional Council and European courts.

The legislation has been met with vigorous criticism from French religious leaders. Bishop Matthieu Rougé, delegate of the French Episcopal Conference for bio‑ethics, warned that “what is at stake is our relationship to life.” Evangelical and Catholic organisations argue the law threatens vulnerable groups, undermines the republican principle of fraternity and could pressure the sick and disabled toward death. They also call for safeguards such as a right of conscientious objection for healthcare workers.

France already has end‑of‑life statutes – the Leonetti law (2005) and the Claeys‑Leonetti law (2016) – which limit futile treatment and permit deep sedation in certain cases, but critics say palliative care remains unevenly available. The new law represents a major shift in French bio‑ethical policy.