Uruguay Becomes First Latin American Country to Legalise Euthanasia
Uruguay Becomes First Latin American Country to Legalise Euthanasia – Uruguay has made history by becoming the first country in Latin America to legalise euthanasia, following the passage of the “Dignified Death Bill” in its Senate.
The bill, which was approved by 20 votes out of 31, allows mentally sound adult citizens in the terminal stage of an irreversible illness to request euthanasia performed by a healthcare professional.
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However, the law does not permit assisted suic!de, where patients self-administer lethal medication.
During the debate, Senator Daniel Borbonet said the move recognised the right of individuals to make end-of-life decisions without being forced to endure unbearable suffering.
“We all believe and feel that life is a right, both in health and in sickness,” he said. “But it should never be an obligation because others don’t understand such unbearable suffering.”
Uruguay, a predominantly Catholic nation, has long been known for its progressive social policies, having previously legalised cannabis, same-sex marriage, and abortion.
A recent poll showed that over 60% of Uruguayans support legal euthanasia, while only 24% oppose it.
While Colombia and Ecuador have decriminalised euthanasia, neither country has passed legislation to regulate the practice. Cuba, on the other hand, permits terminally ill patients to refuse artificial life support.
