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Switzerland

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Legal situation

In short

In Switzerland, euthanasia is forbidden by law. This prohibition is based on the Christian values and traditions of the country. At the same time, assisted suicide (as such) is not forbidden. This is based on the liberal values and traditions of the country. Only when a person has selfish reasons to assist a person, the assistant can be punished.

In Switzerland it is also possible to avoid treatment and to receive palliative care, including palliative sedation till the moment of dying.  

Penal Code

Article 114 of the Swiss Penal Code prohibits euthanasia.

Article 115 of the Swiss Penal Code determines that when a person has selfish reasons to assist a person, this person can be punished for assisted suicide: A person who, from selfish motives, helps or seduces a person to commit suicide, can, when the suicide succeeds, be punished with five years imprisonment or a money penalty. 

Schweizerisches Strafgesetzbuch (in German)

Help to foreigners  

Switzerland is known for its possibilities to help foreigers. DIGNITAS – To live with Dignity – To die with Dignity is an important organisation to realise this aid in dying in practice. 

 

Right to Die Societies in Switzerland

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