kathmandu : In Canberra, the capital of Australia, the government has set the minimum age for “brain-dead” individuals to exercise their right to voluntary euthanasia at 14 years. If this law is passed, it will be the most progressive law regarding euthanasia, granting such rights to even minors.
Regarding this law, Tara Sheen, the Minister for Human Rights, recently mentioned considering lowering the age of maturity from 18 to 14 years for making decisions on euthanasia.
While acknowledging the importance of age limit based on maturity, she emphasized that decisions regarding an individual’s capacity should be based on their ability to make decisions rather than solely relying on their birthday.
She mentioned the participation of over 3,000 individuals in community consultations, with written opinions received from 500 people. Around 80% expressed support for voluntary euthanasia.
On the other hand, opposition to this practice has also begun from the government. James Paterson, the Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, referred to the plan to lower the age as “worrisome.” He stated, “An individual who is not an adult cannot make their own decisions. This is not a matter of conscience. It increases the risk.”
Since its implementation in Victoria in 2017, over a hundred individuals in Australia opted for voluntary euthanasia, with the number exceeding 600 in Victoria alone.