Death with dignity for the irremediably Ill : physician-assisted dying from a Maltese perspective within a comparative review

Abstract

Despite the controversies surrounding the subject of euthanasia, societies are less and less fearing to discuss the implications of moving towards acceptance of greater patient autonomy, culminating in the sanctioning of euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide. This paper seeks to examine the legal framework of some of the permissive jurisdictions around the world and the circumstances under which euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide is allowed, many of which are common across all permissive jurisdictions. Reference will be made to the position in Malta to establish by virtue of which provision or provisions of the law euthanasia and assisted suicide is prohibited.