Canada — Historical Events Description

Canada flag
Canada
Event
Supreme Court Allows Physician-Assisted Dying
Category
Political
Date
2015-02-06
Country
Canada
Description

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled unanimously to allow physician-assisted dying under specific conditions. The court found the existing Criminal Code prohibition unconstitutional in certain cases. The decision applied to competent adults who clearly consent and have grievous, irremediable conditions causing intolerable suffering. This ruling became a major legal turning point in Canadian health and human-rights law. It also led to later federal legislation creating a framework for medical assistance in dying.