Blind spots in the euthanasia debate
Belgium is still regarded internationally as a pioneer in the field of euthanasia, but according to VUB professor and end-of-life researcher Luc Deliens, our country is in danger of falling behind. Whilst countries such as the Netherlands, Canada and Australia are investing heavily in research, evaluation and quality control, he believes Belgium remains mired in political debates lacking a sound scientific basis. “In 25 years, the euthanasia law has never been thoroughly evaluated from a scientific and multidisciplinary perspective,” he says. “And that is a serious political shortcoming."
