What's happened
A referendum in Slovenia has rejected a law legalising assisted dying, with about 53% voting against. The law, approved in July, would have allowed terminally ill patients to end their lives under specific conditions. The suspension of the law will last at least one year, following a campaign backed by the Catholic Church and conservative groups.
What's behind the headline?
The Slovenian referendum highlights the deep societal divide over assisted dying, reflecting broader European debates. The victory of the 'no' vote, driven by conservative and religious groups, underscores the influence of moral and constitutional arguments against euthanasia. The campaign's framing of the law as a threat to human dignity and the culture of life resonated with a significant portion of the electorate, despite prior parliamentary approval and public support. This outcome signals that, even in countries with existing legal frameworks for assisted dying, societal acceptance remains contested. The decision to suspend the law for at least a year allows opponents to rally further and potentially influence future legislation. The case exemplifies how civic activism and moral debates can override legislative decisions, especially when constitutional and ethical concerns are invoked. Moving forward, Slovenia's experience may influence other EU nations contemplating similar laws, emphasizing the importance of societal consensus and the role of religious and conservative voices in shaping end-of-life policies.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera, France 24, Reuters, The Independent, AP News all report on the referendum's outcome, emphasizing the societal and political implications. Al Jazeera highlights the campaign's victory and the role of the Catholic Church, quoting Ales Primc and Prime Minister Golob. France 24 notes the legal and constitutional arguments used by opponents, as well as public opinions at polling stations. Reuters underscores the support from supporters who see the law as a way to alleviate suffering, quoting Primc's statement about the 'culture of life.' The Independent and AP News focus on the civic activism that led to the referendum, with The Independent mentioning the support from the liberal government and the opposition from conservative groups. All sources agree that the law's suspension reflects ongoing societal debates about morality, dignity, and legal rights at the end of life.
How we got here
In July, Slovenia's parliament passed a law permitting assisted dying for terminally ill adults, following a 2024 referendum that supported it. The law aimed to give terminal patients the right to end their suffering with medical assistance, similar to laws in other European countries. However, opposition from conservative groups, the Catholic Church, and some medical associations led to a citizens' initiative collecting over 40,000 signatures, forcing a referendum. The vote was held after a non-binding public consultation showed majority support for the law, but opponents argued it contradicted Slovenia's constitution and promoted a 'culture of death.' The law would have required approval from two doctors and included safeguards like cooling-off periods and self-administration of medication. The referendum turnout was 40.9%, just enough for the no vote to meet the threshold to suspend the law for at least a year.
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