• France's National Assembly approved a bill allowing assisted dying for terminally ill patients.
• The bill was passed with 305 votes in favor and 199 against.
• A significant majority of the French population supports the legislation, with polls indicating over 90% approval.
• Patients eligible must be adults with incurable illnesses at an advanced or terminal stage.
• Criticism comes from religious groups and conservative factions, citing ethical concerns.

On May 27, 2025, the French National Assembly approved a bill that would allow adults suffering from incurable illnesses to gain access to lethal medication, marking a pivotal development in the long-discussed issue of assisted dying. The vote concluded with 305 lawmakers in favor and 199 against the proposed measure, which is part of a broader legislative effort to formalize end-of-life options for patients in need. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of this vote on social media, stating it represents a gradual "path of fraternity" for those grappling with intolerable suffering, while recognizing the need for sensitive deliberation on the topic, according to India Times, Le Monde, and Al Jazeera.

The newly approved bill specifies that assisted dying can only be availed by individuals over the age of 18, who are either French citizens or residents in France, and who are suffering from an incurable and advanced medical condition. To benefit from this measure, a team of medical professionals must confirm that the patient endures intense physical or psychological pain, and is requesting the assistance voluntarily. Furthermore, individuals with severe psychiatric disabilities or neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, will be excluded from this provision. This legislation aligns France with some neighboring countries where similar laws exist, as indicated by multiple sources including Reuters, Le Monde, and India Times.

This legislative movement comes amid a significant shift in public opinion, with recent polls suggesting that more than 90% of French citizens support legal options for assisted dying, reflecting a broader cultural trend across Europe. Despite overwhelming public backing, the bill faces opposition from various conservative factions and religious organizations, which argue that such laws may pressure the vulnerable and alter societal values on end-of-life care. The criticism has been voiced by leaders from multiple faiths, as reported by Le Monde, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.

Following the National Assembly's decision, the bill will transition to the French Senate for further discussion, with significant modifications expected before a definitive vote can occur, which might take several months. The parallel development of an additional bill concerning palliative care aims to enhance the quality of life for terminal patients while respecting their dignity. Health Minister Catherine Vautrin hopes to finalize both legislative measures collectively by 2027, although the timeline hinges on the complexities of parliamentary processes, underlined by Le Monde, Reuters, and Al Jazeera.