Human dignity and patient’s interests above all: assisted dying in Switzerland and the UK

Abstract

Abstract This paper delves into the complex issue of the right to die with dignity, focusing on assisted dying practices within the legal frameworks of Switzerland and the United Kingdom. It examines the emerging challenges and contradictions that this right presents, especially in relation to the fundamental right to life. Highlighting the nuanced interplay between self-determination and the sanctity of life, the study delineates the ethical, medical, and cultural hurdles associated with euthanasia and assisted suicide. It underscores the necessity for legal systems to remain flexible and adaptable, bridging the gap between static legal texts and dynamic real-world applications. This paper seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of how both countries manage the delicate balance between protecting human dignity and navigating the ethical complexities of assisted dying.