France's parliament passes assisted dying law

On 15 July 2026 the French National Assembly voted 291‑241 to approve a bill that creates a legal right to assisted dying for adults with incurable, terminal illnesses. The measure applies to French citizens and legal residents aged 18 or over who are able to express a free and informed wish to die, suffer constant physical or psychological pain, and meet strict medical criteria. Patients must first obtain a written request reviewed by a physician and a multidisciplinary panel; if approved, they may self‑administer a lethal substance, or, if physically unable, a doctor or nurse may administer it. Health‑care professionals may invoke a conscience clause. The law still requires review by the Constitutional Council, as announced by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, before it can take effect. President Emmanuel Macron hailed the vote as the fulfilment of a campaign promise. The legislation follows repeated rejections by the Senate and positions France alongside Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Canada and other nations that permit assisted dying. Opposition from the Catholic Church and some political groups warns of risks to vulnerable people.