French lawmakers on Wednesday adopted a bill creating a legal right to assisted dying for adults with incurable illnesses, capping an intense ethical and political debate.
The legislation will, under strict conditions, allow a person who requests it to receive a lethal substance, either by self-administration or, if physically unable, with assistance from a doctor or nurse.
The National Assembly adopted the text by 291 votes to 241.
"On this issue, which is as personal as it is serious, and which concerns life, suffering and dignity, there was only one possible approach: to take the time to listen, engage in dialogue and hold a debate," President Emmanuel Macron said on X.
Demonstrators opposed to the measure gathered outside parliament.
"I am deeply saddened and worried at the thought that attempts are being made to legally normalise tragic situations that could be resolved in other ways," said 90-year-old protester Marie-Laure de la Palme.
Opinion polls have consistently shown broad support for assisted dying in France. An Ifop poll published in February found that 84% of respondents approved of the bill.
