Islands debate euthanasia steps

The Island of Jersey has taken a major step towards legalising ‘assisted dying’ after a parliamentary vote.

Around two-thirds of the 49-strong assembly voted in favour of assisted dying (also known as assisted suicide) for adults with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months (or 12 months if they have a neurodegenerative disease). The plan as proposed will require applicants to have made a voluntary and informed decision to die.

Assisted dying is unlikely to be legalised in Jersey before 2027. Draft legislation, expected to take up to 18 months, will then need to be debated and approved before it becomes legal.