The Slippery Slope of Euthanasia

The slippery slope of euthanasia continues to loom large. As states pass or attempt to pass laws legalizing varying degrees of euthanasia, it is important to look to countries that have passed euthanasia legislation. 

AP recently reported that the Netherlands has been euthanizing autistic people and others with intellectual disabilities.   

This bears little resemblance to the limitations first set up by Dutch advocates of euthanasia. But once a society determines that killing the patient is the answer to their suffering, the definition of suffering will quickly expand.  

Let’s look at our neighbor to the north.

Canada legalized euthanasia in 2016 and in seven short years their safety guidelines ballooned from confining Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) to patients who are terminally ill to dispatching individuals in classifications that will shock and alarm unaware Americans. 

Canadians who are disabled, homeless, and prisoners are now eligible for MAID.  

Last March, the Parliament passed a bill that would allow euthanasia for mental illness, including drug addicted individuals. Recently, they defeated a bill (C-314) that would have reversed this expansion of the law. It is set to take effect March 17, 2024.  

Money is a key incentive behind Canada’s euthanasia program. Canada has a government run healthcare system. In their 2020 report, the Office of the Parliamentary Budget Officer predicted that during 2021 euthanasia would provide a net savings of $86.9 million to their healthcare costs. 

Government officials believe they have a good thing going and have their sights set on an ever-expanding number of qualified individuals. Including drug addicts who would put a dent in the population of those unsightly camps of homeless, drug addicted Canadians.   

As one who suffers from chronic, often debilitating pain, if my citizenship rested with our friends up north, I would have a target on my back like many other Canadians. Those denied essential healthcare but offered MAID.  

Humans deserve more respect than being put down like a diseased animal. We must not go down the slippery slope of euthanasia.

A popular phrase from the Canadian National Anthem is “The True North Strong and Free.” Our friends have strayed from the ideals expressed in that cherished song.   

Defending all life,

Bradley Mattes

President, Life Issues Institute