End of life: Bishops appeal to MPs before the July 15th vote

The National Assembly is preparing to vote on Wednesday, July 15, on the bill concerning assisted dying. This formal vote comes after months of debate on a text that deeply divides French society. Members of Parliament will have to decide on a measure that authorizes, under strict conditions, assisted dying for certain terminally ill patients.

A mobilization of prelates before the vote

Bishops have been making numerous public statements in recent days to appeal to members of parliament ahead of the upcoming vote. Their intervention aims to highlight the vulnerability of the most frail individuals in the face of such legislation. The prelates are seeking to influence the consciences of elected officials just hours before a vote that could transform the French legal framework regarding end-of-life care.

The bill being examined on Wednesday could profoundly alter medical practices and the care provided to terminally ill patients. Opinions remain deeply divided within the National Assembly, making the outcome of the vote uncertain. This bill represents the culmination of a long legislative process initiated during the previous administration.