On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, French lawmakers adopted a bill establishing a legal right to assisted dying for adults suffering from incurable illnesses. The legislation, championed by President Emmanuel Macron, allows eligible individuals to receive a lethal substance under strict conditions. This substance may be self-administered or given by a doctor or nurse if the person is physically unable to do so.

Access to assisted dying will be limited to French citizens or legal residents who have a serious, life-threatening illness in an advanced or terminal stage, experience constant physical or psychological suffering related to their condition, and can make a free and informed choice.

The bill passed the lower house of parliament with 291 votes in favor and 241 against. President Macron, who promised this reform during his 2022 re-election campaign, stated on social media: “On this issue, which is as personal as it is serious, and which concerns life, suffering and dignity, there was only one possible approach: to take the time ⁠to listen, engage in dialogue and hold a debate.” He added, “With seriousness, humility and full respect for our democracy, I have honoured that commitment.”

The legislation now awaits approval from France's highest constitutional authority before becoming law. If approved, France will join countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada in legalizing assisted dying.

The bill's author, Olivier Falorni, a former lawmaker turned mayor, was applauded by lawmakers after what he described as "14 years of parliamentary battles." Agnes Firmin Le Bodo, a centre-right lawmaker and former health minister who drafted the 2024 bill, said the law would be passed "because it is balanced."

However, opposition remains. Christophe Bentz of the far-right National Rally party called the text "very dangerous" and warned of potential "abuses." Additionally, some critics noted the lack of debate in the right-wing dominated Senate, suggesting the text fell short of fully addressing both proponents' aspirations and opponents' concerns.

Demonstrators from the "Front de gauche antivalidiste" (Anti-ableism Left Front) protested against the law in Paris on the day of the vote.

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