The Australian parliament is likely to pass a law banning information about suicide from being given on the internet, by phone—or publication and distribution of research—on new methods of self-deliverance. Clearly aimed at Dr. Philip Nitschke and his Exit International activities, the government will be able to tap Exit’s phones, infiltrate and screen Exit’s faxes and emails, and monitor Exit’s website and listservs.
Attorney Ludwig Minelli, Director of Dignitas in Switzerland, argued that this legislation is in violation of Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of the UN; Australia is a signatory. Dr. Nitschke is considering a move to New Zealand if this passes.