Belgium and the Netherlands – the Low Countries – are the first countries in the world to have legalized euthanasia. Physicians who terminate life at the patient’s request no longer have to fear criminal prosecution. However, end-of-life legislation in the Low Countries has provoked diverse responses and sparked vigorous and divisive ethical debate. For some, the new legislation has become a shining example; for others it is a lamentable materialization of a culture of death.

‘Euthanasia and Palliative Care in the Low Countries’ provides an overview and comparison of the legal specifics of the Belgian and Dutch Euthanasia Acts, a discussion of palliative care initiatives and an ethical examination of the new legislation. In addition, the book provides an in-depth analysis of the arguments used in the end-of-life debate and a critical examination of the positions taken by the churches. The book concludes with an overview of how Christian health-care institutions accommodate to this new legal situation.



Table of Contents

Introduction - Tom Meulenbergs & Paul Schotsmans

Euthanasia in the Low Countries: Comparative Reflections on the Belgian and Dutch Euthanasia Act - Maurice Adams & Herman Nys

Palliative Care and Euthanasia: Belgian and Dutch Perspectives - Bert Broeckaert & Rien Janssens

Reporting Euthanasia: Physician’s Experiences with a Dutch Regional Evaluation Committee - Marta van Dijk, Guy A.M. Widdershoven, Agnes Meershoek

Beyond Autonomy and Beneficence: The Moral Basis of Euthanasia in the Netherlands - Guy A.M. Widdershoven

Death, Dignity, and the Theory of Value - Daniel P. Sulmasy

The Sanctity of Autonomy? Transcending the Opposition Between a Quality of Life and a Sanctity of Life Ethic - Tom Meulenbergs & Paul Schotsmans

You Shall Not Let Anyone Die Alone: Responsible Care for Suffering and Dying People - Roger Burggraeve

Churches in the Low Countries on Euthanasia: Background, Argumentation and Commentary - Jan Jans

Caring for a Dignified End of Life in a Christian Health Care Institution: The View of Caritas Catholica Vlaanderen - Chris Gastmans

Euthanasia and Pluralism - Herman De Dijn


Appendix I. The Belgian Act on Euthanasia

Appendix II. The Dutch Termination of Life on Request and Asssisted Suicide (Review Procedures) Act