Spain reviews assisted‑dying law as 565 people receive euthanasia in 2025

Spain's Ministry of Health reported that 565 people were assisted to die in 2025, representing 0.13% of all deaths and bringing the total number of users since the law's enactment five years ago to 1,668. The data show regional variation, with Catalonia, Navarre and the Basque Country recording the highest application rates.

Health minister Monica García said the government is studying measures to prevent court proceedings from delaying the application of euthanasia, noting that judicial delays can unnecessarily prolong suffering. She defended the law's safeguards and announced plans to reduce territorial disparities, strengthen professional training, improve public information and ensure equal access nationwide. The law also marked its five‑year anniversary, with García praising its role in upholding dignity and freedom.

Compared with other countries with similar legal frameworks, Spain's assisted‑dying rate remains low – 0.13% versus 5.96% in the Netherlands, 5.10% in Canada and around 4% in Belgium.