Euthanasia in Canada

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Euthanasia in Canada

Euthanasia in Canada refers to the legal and ethical considerations surrounding the practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering within the country. Euthanasia, also known as assisted dying or medical assistance in dying (MAID), has been a subject of significant legal, medical, and ethical debate in Canada.

Legal History

The legal status of euthanasia in Canada has evolved over time. The Criminal Code of Canada historically prohibited euthanasia and assisted suicide. However, significant changes occurred following the landmark Supreme Court of Canada decision in Carter v Canada (AG) in 2015. The court ruled that prohibiting physician-assisted dying violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, specifically the rights to life, liberty, and security of the person.

In response to the Carter decision, the Parliament of Canada passed Bill C-14 in June 2016, which legalized medical assistance in dying under specific circumstances. The legislation allows eligible adults to request and receive assistance in dying if they meet certain criteria.

Eligibility Criteria

Under the current legal framework, individuals must meet several criteria to be eligible for medical assistance in dying in Canada:

• They must be at least 18 years old.
• They must be capable of making healthcare decisions.
• They must have a grievous and irremediable medical condition.
• Their request for MAID must be voluntary and not the result of external pressure.
• They must give informed consent to receive MAID.

Process

The process for obtaining medical assistance in dying involves several steps:

• The individual must make a written request for MAID, which must be signed by two independent witnesses.
• Two independent medical practitioners must assess the individual to confirm eligibility.
• There is a mandatory reflection period between the request and the provision of MAID, although this period can be waived under certain circumstances.

Ethical Considerations

Euthanasia raises numerous ethical questions, including the balance between an individual's right to autonomy and the potential for abuse or coercion. The role of healthcare providers in end-of-life care and the potential impact on vulnerable populations are also significant concerns.

Public Opinion

Public opinion on euthanasia in Canada is generally supportive, with many Canadians advocating for the right to choose a dignified death. However, there are also strong voices in opposition, including some religious groups and disability rights advocates.

Related Legislation

• Bill C-7: An amendment to the original MAID legislation, which expanded eligibility criteria and removed the requirement for a person's natural death to be reasonably foreseeable.
• Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

See Also

• Palliative care in Canada
• Right to die
• Ethics of euthanasia
• Assisted suicide
• End-of-life care