Assisted dying law approved in Jersey
BBC World
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The law allowing terminally ill adults in Jersey to choose assisted dying has been approved by the States Assembly, marking a significant milestone in the region's history. The bill, which passed with 32 votes in favor and 16 against, is now set for Royal Assent, potentially enabling the first legal assisted deaths as early as 2027. This makes Jersey the second jurisdiction in the British Isles to fully approve such laws, following the Isle of Man.
Eligibility criteria include individuals with terminal illnesses expected to die within six months or up to 12 months for those with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's or motor neurone disease. The law requires applicants to have lived in Jersey for at least a year, which is less restrictive than the Isle of Man’s five-year residency requirement. Advocates, including terminally ill patients and campaigners, argue that this law provides much-needed relief from suffering, offering dignity and choice at life's end.
The approval has sparked both celebration and criticism. Supporters, such as Health Minister Tom Binet, highlight Jersey's assisted dying law as one of the "safest and most transparent" globally. Lorna Pirozzolo, a terminally ill breast cancer patient, expressed relief, stating that the fear of prolonged suffering is now alleviated. However, opponents like Deputy Sir Philip Bailhache caution against the ethical implications, expressing concerns about changing societal norms around death and the potential
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026