This report, which is coauthored by the End-of-Life Care Research Group, shows that palliative care is well developed in countries with legalised euthanasia/assisted suicide, or at least no less well developed than in other European countries. Though international comparison is difficult given the differences in organisation and structure of palliative care provision, these countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Switzerland) rank high in Europe for most structural or national indicators. The literature review confirmed a degree of palliative care provision in Belgium and the Netherlands that is comparable with surrounding countries but, as in any other country, there are still some important improvements to be implemented.

There is evidence of advancement of palliative care in countries with legalised euthanasia, also after the legalisation of euthanasia and/or assisted suicide. The idea that legalisation of euthanasia and/or assisted suicide might obstruct or halt palliative care development thus seems unwarranted and is only expressed in commentaries rather than demonstrated by empirical evidence. But we must also consider that it has only been a short period of time – less than 10 years – after legalisation of euthanasia and/or assisted suicide and changes in trends for complex social issues such as this one may only become apparent after a longer period.

The European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) formulated a position on euthanasia and assisted suicide published in 2003 which recognised the diversity of views and perspectives across the cultures and traditions that make up European nations.  Ten position statements were proposed.  This report adds to this work by carefully reviewing and presenting the evidence.  We recommend that it is essential that nations who are considering legalising euthanasia or assisted suicide establish equitable, accessible and affordable palliative care and ensure a broad national structure for the provision of palliative care services.

More information? Please click here to read the full report.