New Delhi, December 28 – In modern society, debates around sensitive issues like life and death are intensifying. Across the world, many countries have taken steps to address the right to euthanasia and medically assisted death. While this is seen as a symbol of personal freedom, there are also growing debates on the social and ethical questions surrounding it.

Legal Changes: Global Trends

Several countries have granted legal recognition to euthanasia.

In Canada, the "Medical Assistance in Dying" (MAiD) program, which was initially limited to terminal illnesses, has now expanded to include people with mental disorders, dementia, and the elderly who have lived a full life.

Switzerland has now become the hub for "suicide tourism," where foreign nationals come for euthanasia.

Germany has declared "self-determined death" as a fundamental right.

In the Netherlands and Belgium, euthanasia is also allowed for minors under certain conditions.

Concerns and Criticisms

As euthanasia becomes more common, several concerns have surfaced.

Experts believe that euthanasia is becoming the "last resort" for those facing poverty, homelessness, or inadequate medical facilities. A survey revealed that in Canada, many people are choosing euthanasia as an escape from poor living conditions. One person shared, "I don’t want to die, but dying is better than living on the streets."

Isn’t it a failure of the government that instead of providing citizens with a dignified life, they are making death more accessible?

Ethical and Social Questions

This issue is not just legal but deeply cultural and ethical.

In society, the question is emerging: How do we balance individual freedom with social welfare?

Despite religious and cultural commitments, the growing acceptance of euthanasia reflects a shift in our thinking about human life.

Should it be accepted that, instead of focusing on the quality of life, there is a trend toward making death easier? Is this weakening the moral fabric of our society?

Statistics and Examples

In Canada, the number of euthanasia cases under the MAiD program has increased by 30% every year.

In 2022, nearly 45,000 citizens applied for euthanasia.

In California, after the implementation of the "End of Life Option Act," there was a significant rise in such cases.

Role of Society and Government

The argument behind the legalization of euthanasia is that it is a part of human rights. But shouldn’t it be the government's duty to prevent citizens from finding death preferable to life?

The legalization of euthanasia raises the question of whether it is the result of individual freedom or a symbol of society’s failure.

Shouldn’t the government focus on improving the quality of life for its citizens?

Conclusion

The growing trend towards euthanasia indicates that society is prioritizing personal freedom. However, it is also crucial that this freedom does not become a compulsion. If we limit human flourishing to choices like euthanasia, we risk losing the fundamental meaning of what it means to be a society. Change is necessary, but it must be done without jeopardizing human dignity and collective responsibility.