The European Parliament Platform for Secularism in Politics (EPPSP, a cross party working group of members of the European Parliament, addressing issues relating to the relationship between religion, philosophical convictions and politics) will discuss current developments with regard to assisted dying and living wills on September 5, 2012 from 12:30 – 14:00 in room ASP 1 E 1 of the European Parliament. Assisted dying is not a European Union competence, but it is an issue that many European citizens are confronted with at some stage of their lives, either for themselves or for a loved one. In some member states assisted dying is legal, under strict conditions, and people can chose to die in dignity and peace. In other countries assisted dying is practiced, but it is a crime. This results in obscure practices or people risking prison sentences, or people being forced to long, unbearable suffering. We must break the taboo. Speakers will discuss the situation in The Netherlands and Poland and inform the audience on developments in this field.
This debate will be held in the presence of Dr. De Jong, director Right to Die-NL, Dr. Onwuteaka-Philipsen, professor in end-of-life research, Mr. Iszkowski, director of the Palikot Movement’s think tank and Dr. Irwin, former medical director of the United Nations.
The EPPSP is a Platform for all those who favor the secular nature of the EU institutions, and the strict separation of church and state at EU level.