Taiwan People's Party pushes national referendum on euthanasia

The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) announced a proposal to hold a national referendum on legalising euthanasia for patients with incurable diseases who endure unbearable pain. Party chair Huang Kuo‑chang and senior members presented the draft to the public, urging citizens to vote on the “life autonomy, dignified death” initiative. They argue that the issue goes beyond medical policy and should be decided directly by the electorate, criticizing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party for hindering public discussion. The TPP points to existing legislation such as the Palliative Care Act and the Patient Autonomy Act, but says current safeguards are insufficient for those seeking a dignified end‑of‑life option. The proposal has sparked debate over ethical, legal and social implications, with opponents warning of potential abuse while supporters stress personal freedom and humane treatment of the terminally ill.