Contextualizing Paediatric Euthanasia within the Framework of Children’s Right

Abstract

Given the universal recognition of the sanctity of human life and the robust protection of fundamental right to life as the most important and foundation of all rights, euthanasia poses considerable legal, moral and ethical challenges. These challenges become more dire and profound with respect to paediatric euthanasia. The article aims at providing insight into the complex legal and ethical challenges which euthanasia especially paediatric euthanasia engenders and explores the import of autonomy rights granted under the rubric of the Child Rights Convention in ameliorating the challenges. This is achieved by examining the meaning and nature of euthanasia, categories and arguments in favour and against euthanasia generally and in particular paediatric euthanasia and the competency of a child in taking end of life decisions. The articles analysis some of the provisions of the Belgian and Netherlands euthanasia laws. The paper believes that given the gravity associated with the decision to request euthanasia and the finality of such a decision, children, especially younger children, should be offered intensive palliative care and be precluded from requesting euthanasia.