Jersey approves bill to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults

The Guardian World

by Harriet Sherwood

February 26, 2026

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Jersey’s parliament has taken a significant step toward legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill adults following a landmark vote. Members of the States Assembly approved the bill by a margin of 32 to 16 on Thursday. The legislation now requires royal assent before it can be enacted into law, which is expected in the coming months. This move marks a historic moment for the island, as it aligns with growing global conversations about end-of-life choices and patient autonomy. The bill allows terminally ill adults living in Jersey to access medical assistance in dying under strict conditions. It requires individuals to be terminally ill, with a life expectancy of six months or less, and to provide written consent. The process will involve two independent doctors confirming the diagnosis and prognosis, as well as ensuring that the individual is mentally capable of making such a decision. This framework is designed to safeguard vulnerable patients while respecting their wishes. The approval of this bill reflects a broader shift in attitudes toward end-of-life care and autonomy. Similar laws have been implemented in regions like Canada, parts of the United States, and some European countries. The debate over assisted dying often centers on balancing compassion for the terminally ill with ethical concerns about hastening death. Jersey’s decision highlights the ongoing tension between respecting personal freedoms and ensuring that vulnerable individuals are protected from potential coercion or misuse of such laws. Critics have raised questions about safeguards and the potential for abuse, while supporters argue that it gives patients more control over their final days. Public opinion in Jersey has been divided, with some expressing relief at having a choice in end-of-life care, while others remain concerned about the moral implications. The bill’s passage is expected to spark further discussions not just in Jersey but globally, as other regions consider similar legislation. In summary, Jersey’s legalization of assisted dying represents a

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/26/2026