French MPs approve assisted dying law with strict rules after years of argument

After years of extensive debate, the French National Assembly has given its final approval to a new assisted dying law on July 15, 2026. This landmark legislation introduces strict conditions for adults with incurable illnesses seeking to end their lives. The measure primarily allows for medically assisted suicide, where eligible patients can self-administer lethal medication.

To qualify, individuals must be over 18, French citizens or legal residents, and suffer from a serious, incurable, and life-threatening illness in an advanced or terminal stage. They must also be experiencing constant and unbearable physical or psychological suffering that cannot be alleviated by treatment, and be capable of making a free and informed decision. The law explicitly excludes those whose suffering is solely psychological, as well as individuals with severe psychiatric disorders or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. A doctor will consult a team of healthcare professionals to confirm eligibility, and the patient's request will undergo review and a period of reflection.

While the National Assembly has passed the bill, it will now be referred to the Constitutional Council for a final review to ensure its compliance with the French Constitution before it can officially come into force. The Senate, the upper house, had previously rejected the bill on multiple occasions, but under France's legislative process, the National Assembly holds the ultimate authority in cases of disagreement between the two chambers.