Spain Needs an Assisted Dying Law That Actually Works

Euthanasia and assisted dying are different procedures: in the former, a professional administers the drug; in the latter, the person injects it themselves under supervision. Spain has regulated euthanasia since 2021, but its practical application is plagued by obstacles and delays.

## Euthanasia and assisted dying are not the same

Euthanasia means a medical professional administers pentobarbital to the patient. With assisted dying, the person chooses where and when, and injects the drug themselves under legal and medical supervision.

Spain passed Organic Law 3/2021 regulating euthanasia (the country's main statute on the practice), in force since June 2021. On paper it covers both scenarios, but the reality on the ground is quite different.

## Canada and Switzerland as reference points

In **Canada**, assisted dying is covered by public healthcare and does not require a terminal illness: psychological suffering is enough. Euthanasia for terminal illness can be granted within a week of the request.

Assisted dying, on the other hand, takes between **7 and 8 months**. It is the slow route. **Switzerland** has had similar legislation for years and is the usual destination for those seeking this procedure in Europe.

## Spain's law: dead letter in practice

The Spanish law is bogged down in countless administrative hurdles. Most doctors refuse to perform the procedure, and obtaining it can take a minimum of **2 years**.

There is a political climate willing to repeal the current legislation. Anyone needing guidance on this procedure should consult a specialised medical or legal professional.