Slovenia awaits referendum on legalising assisted dying

A referendum will be held in Slovenia on Sunday in which citizens will decide on a bill to legalise assisted dying for adults with terminal illnesses. Parliament passed the law in July, but because of a strong citizens' initiative led by politician Ales Primco, a referendum has also been called.

The law allows assisted end of life for adults who are in pain and have no hope of getting better. Supporters claim that the measure will alleviate unnecessary suffering, while opponents call for the development of palliative care.

Approval is contingent on the decision of a majority of participating voters, who must make up at least 20 percent of the 1.692 million eligible voters. Assisted dying is currently permitted in countries such as Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium and several US states.

The proposal in Slovenia includes control mechanisms and the consent of two doctors, with the patient self-administering the drug.

(reuters, sie)