World Health Organization
The ethical implications of the legalization of euthanasia worldwide
Meet the chairs
Ella Peters
Elena Campos
What is this committee about
The ethical implications of the legalization of euthanasia have become an important global debate. Euthanasia, also known as assisted dying, is when a person chooses to end their life to relieve extreme suffering, usually from a serious or terminal illness. While some countries have legalized it under strict medical and legal conditions, others strongly oppose it, viewing it as morally wrong or a violation of the value of human life.
In the World Health Organization (WHO), this topic is closely tied to public health, medical ethics, and human rights. WHO's mission is to promote health and well-being for all people, but euthanasia raises complex questions about what it truly means to provide care. It challenges the idea of whether doctors should only focus on preserving life or if, in some cases, helping to end suffering can also be seen as an act of compassion.
The ethical implications are wide-ranging.
Supporters argue that euthanasia respects individual autonomy, allowing people the right to decide over their own bodies and avoid unnecessary pain. However, opponents warn that it may undermine the value of life, lead to abuse or pressure on vulnerable patients, and conflict with religious and cultural beliefs that see life as sacred. It also raises questions about how much trust can be placed in medical systems to ensure fair and safe practices.
As euthanasia becomes increasingly discussed and legalized in certain nations. The goal is to find a balance between compassion, autonomy, and the duty to protect life, a challenge that continues to divide nations and test modern healthcare ethics.
