The Knowledge Centre
A global resource for understanding the right to die.
Understanding what we mean by the Right to Die
Welcome to the Federation’s central hub for information on assisted dying. Here you will find clear definitions of global terminology, answers to frequently asked questions, and up to date resources on the legal status of assisted dying around the world. Whether you are a researcher, advocate, or individual seeking clarity, this page is designed to empower you with the facts.
Defining Assisted Dying
The language used to describe end of life choices can be complex and highly contested. Each jurisdiction uses terms it views as appropriate to its social, cultural and legal frameworks. To provide clarity and unity, the Federation adopted a resolution at its 2022 General Assembly in Canada. Regardless of the specific legal method or jurisdiction, we use the global term Voluntary Assisted Dying (AD).
Voluntary Assisted Dying – Why call it (Voluntary) Assisted Dying?
The term ‘voluntary assisted dying’ is now widely used as these terms most accurately describe the process involved and are preferred by healthcare professionals. (Voluntary) assisted dying is:
VOLUNTARY: the decision to seek an assisted
death must be voluntary and made without
pressure or coercion.
ASSISTED: by health practitioners. If a person is
considered eligible and wishes to proceed, they
either self-administer a substance prescribed by
a doctor or have an experienced doctor or nurse
administer the substance for them.
DYING: to be eligible, the person must be terminally
ill, or suffering unbearably, according to the law in each jurisdiction.
Our Educational Mission
How We Share Knowledge
Education is one of the Federation’s most powerful tools. We are committed to spreading accurate, evidence based information to support the global fight for autonomy.
Disseminating Research
We provide educational materials on self determination and end of life care to scholars, activist groups, and the public.
Global Conferences
We facilitate international exchange by hosting biennial conferences, allowing member societies to share legal strategies and medical expertise.
Supporting New Societies
We can support activists establish new right to die societies in countries where they do not yet exist.
Legal Advocacy:
We link networks of lawyers to share expertise on court cases, helping member societies draft robust new laws.
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Our Knowledge Library
Explore our collection of publications and educational materials from around the world on assisted dying. Unless specifically indicated, all of the resources shared here are intended only for personal use and personal research purposes. If you plan to use any of these resources for publication or reproduction, you must satisfy yourself that you have obtained the necessary rights to do so.
Academic
Public
Medical
Our members societies work worldwide to raise awareness of voluntary assisted dying
Around 350 million people around the world are fortunate in having some form of right to die legislation to call upon if their personal situation requires it.
However, the fight continues to extend that right to everyone else. With more than 30 years of reliable data available which underlines the safety and efficacy of voluntary assisted dying, the Federation works with local organisations to support activists, educate parliamentarians and provide expert knowledge wherever it is needed.
France
ADMD France, Le Choix and AAVIVRE; our French societies all working hard have helped secure a new law in France
Australia
DWD Victoria launched a successful Young Ambassadors program in 2024, now being rolled out worldwide.
Brazil
The Federation welcomed Eu Decido in 2025, fighting for end of life rights for South America’s largest country.
Italy
With continued direct action and campaigning, Associazone Luca Coscioni has expanded the rights to an assisted death in Regions of Italy
About
Become a Part of the WFRtDS
Whether you represent an organization or yourself, find your place in the international movement for end of life choice.
Become a Member Organisation
Join our global network of societies working together to secure end of life rights. Membership connects your organization with legal experts, campaign resources, and a platform to amplify your advocacy on the world stage.
Download Membership FormBecome a Supporter (individuals)
You don’t have to be an organization to make a difference. Individuals can become official Supporters of the Federation with an annual contribution of $25. Your support helps fund our global educational outreach and advocacy.
Download Supporters FormStay engaged via News & Updates
Keep up with the latest legislative changes, research, and upcoming events in the right to die movement. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive curated updates from our member societies across 30+
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Our Member Organisations
We currently have 63 are members of the World Federation.
latest news
The latest news from our members and from around the world
Our members produce helpful factsheets and newsletters. The Federation is always happy to share other sources of information in favour of our joint mission to advance assisted dying around the world.
