WHO Convenes on Assisted Dying and Euthanasia, discussing ethical responsibilities and regulatory frameworks
Written by Adam Blake, Journalist, LIMUN 2026
Yesterday, the World Health Organisation convened here at LIMUN to discuss a global regulatory network for Assisted Dying and Euthanasia. This committee has so far featured the perspectives of many European states, as well as the People's Republic of China, Canada, India, Australia, New Zealand, and the Holy See in its position as an observer state.
The debate has so far largely centred around ethical responsibilities with the delegate of Finland believing that Assisted Dying is first and foremost a ‘Question of Dignity’, while states, such as the UK and China, believe that the logistics surrounding assisted dying need to be closely monitored to prevent unnecessary deaths and guard against what the delegate of China refers to as ‘Suicide Tourism.’
This committee diverged slightly from tradition when entertaining its first motions, passing an unmoderated caucus proposed by Finland. Although not what anyone would call traditional, discussion has been focused with two or three blocs forming around different positions.
The largest bloc, with members mainly from Europe and Oceania, are seeking to produce a document that maintains the current order, though with stricter regulations surrounding ‘Suicide Tourism’ and the standardisation of a two doctor approval process for both Assisted Dying and Euthanasia. The other clear bloc, led by China, proposes a stricter system, although it is as yet unclear whether they approve of Assisted Dying and Euthanasia.
States with the most hardline positions, in particular the Holy See, are yet to sway the committee to their side, though states with strong religious beliefs, such as France and Italy, are as of yet fully decided on their positions. With debate heading into the latter half of the second day, these blocs have begun to produce working papers, though the exact contents of these are yet to be seen.
More updates to follow.
