VivirLatino

Mexico could legalize euthanasia

11:00 H | Topics: Justice - Mexico - Politics

Lately there has been lots of movement in Mexico City on the part of leftist senators towards the legalization of abortion, sparking a heated public debate that is raging on. Now Mexico is on its way to the legalization of yet another controversial practice: euthanasia. The health commission of the Mexican senate is responsible for the proposed bill, which

...is based on humanist principals and respects the right of the individual to freedom of self-determination, taking into account that this liberty be given in a responsible and informed way, according to the PRD.

The plan looks to reform the Federal Penal Code and create a law called General Law of Suspension of Curative Treatment, also called the Law of the Right to a Dignified Death. The requirements of the law can be applied if the patient is in terminal phase, having been diagnosed with a maximum of 6 months to live, and when the patient or his or her family (in the case of a incapacitated patient) have given their consent.

Spain's El Pais reports that the bill has been well-received by senators, but I'm sure that as the time to vote on the bill draws closer, the church will stick its nose in the matter. We'll keep you posted on how this story progresses.

Via / El Pais

Related

• In the 21st Century, Abortion is Illegal All Over Latin America (Tuesday, Sep 02 2008)
• Mexico City Abortion At Risk (Monday, Jun 04 2007)