Storting majority says no to active euthanasia
Published
A majority in the Storting does not want to introduce active euthanasia in Norway. The Labour Party, the Centre Party, the Socialist Left Party, the Red Party and the Christian Democratic Party have clearly stated that they are opposed to such a change. Only two parties are in favour of having the issue investigated further.
Active euthanasia means that a doctor gives the patient a medication that causes death, at the patient's request. Today this is prohibited in Norway. It is only permitted to discontinue treatment, and patients may ask to receive palliative treatment, for example painkilling medication.
The parties that are opposed write that a right to ask for death could lead to pressure on vulnerable people, especially the elderly and the sick. They believe it is more important to build up palliative care and improve health services. Opponents also argue that society must take care of everyone, including when life is difficult.
The issue has been debated for a long time in Norway, and it will probably come up again in the debate on health and ethics. For now, however, it is clear that there is no majority in the Storting for introducing active euthanasia.
Sources: Nettavisen
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