French bishops decry vote legalising ‘assisted dying’ as ‘turning point’ in nation’s history

France’s bishops are strongly criticising a “radical choice” made by French lawmakers to legalise “assisted dying.” A watershed vote by the National Assembly 15 July legalised assisted dying, including euthanasia and assisted suicide in certain cases.

Lawmakers approved the measure by a vote of 291 to 241, allowing doctors or nurses, under specific conditions, to administer a lethal substance. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the result, saying he had fulfilled a campaign commitment.

Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, president of the French bishops’ conference, called the vote a “serious turning point,” arguing it abandons France’s tradition of caring for people until natural death. The bishops warned the law could pressure vulnerable people and eventually expand eligibility for assisted dying while weakening palliative care.

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They also expressed concern that Catholic hospitals and nursing homes could face legal challenges if they refuse to allow assisted dying on their premises. The legislation now faces review by France’s Constitutional Council before it can take effect.

The bishops reiterated their call to the nation’s Catholics to “bear witness that another path is possible – one of faithful presence and attentive care that alleviates physical or psychological suffering, without ever abandoning anyone.”