The Intersection of Law, Ethics and Medicine in the Right to Die Debate: A Global Analysis

Abstract

The evolution of medical practices related to end-of-life care has profoundly transformed how society approaches death and dying. From the rise of the hospice movement to the widespread integration of palliative care, these developments reflect a growing emphasis on patient dignity, comfort, and the alleviation of suffering. As the global population continues to age and medical technology advances, the role of palliative care and the ethical complexities surrounding end-of-life decisions will remain central to the broader healthcare landscape. Thus the aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive global analysis of how law, ethics, and medicine intersect in the right-to-die debate. It seeks to explore the ways in which these three domains converge and diverge in addressing the complex issues surrounding euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. By examining legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and medical practices across various jurisdictions, the paper aims to illuminate the diverse approaches to end-of-life decisions, highlighting both the harmonies and tensions that arise in different cultural, legal, and medical contexts. Through this analysis, the paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how societies navigate the right-to-die debate.