The European Network on Independent Living (ENIL) has published a new Position Paper on Assisted Dying, developed following a consultation with ENIL members across Europe. The paper reflects a broad range of perspectives from disabled people, organisations, and experts within the Independent Living movement, and examines the ethical, social, and human rights implications of assisted dying from a disability rights perspective.
The debate on assisted dying is increasingly present in many European countries. For disabled people, however, the issue raises specific concerns linked to discrimination, structural barriers, and the lack of adequate support services. Through this paper, ENIL aims to contribute to the debate by highlighting how current social conditions can influence end-of-life decisions.
Consultation findings
The position paper is based on a consultation carried out among ENIL members through an online survey. The responses revealed diverse views across the Independent Living movement, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the topic.
A majority of respondents expressed opposition to assisted dying (either completely or partially), while a minority supported it or called for a more neutral assessment. The consultation also showed strong agreement on several key principles, including the importance of dignity, self-determination, and the need for robust support systems that allow disabled people to live independently.
Key concerns
Respondents highlighted several major concerns regarding assisted dying in the current European context:
· Lack of adequate support services, including personal assistance and community-based services
· Persistent institutionalisation and structural barriers to Independent Living
· Ableism and societal devaluation of disabled lives
· Risks that assisted dying could become a response to systemic failures, such as poverty, isolation, or lack of support
· Potential failures of safeguards and the influence of medical and social biases in end-of-life decisions
These concerns point to the broader social context in which choices about assisted dying may take place.
ENIL’s position
Based on the consultation findings and the current situation of disability rights across Europe, ENIL concludes that assisted dying cannot currently be considered a safe or rights-based option.
The organisation stresses that decisions about end-of-life must be understood in the context of structural inequalities, including the lack of Independent Living support, discrimination, and underinvestment in social services.
ENIL therefore calls on European states and EU institutions to prioritise the full implementation of the right to Independent Living, including access to personal assistance, community-based services, accessible housing, and inclusive healthcare.
Key recommendations
The position paper calls for:
· Full implementation of Independent Living as a human rights obligation under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
· Ensuring adequate support systems and alternatives before considering assisted dying frameworks
· Strong safeguards and independent monitoring mechanisms to prevent human rights violations
· Mandatory training for healthcare professionals on disability rights and ableism
· A cautious, human rights-based approach to policy debates on assisted dying in Europe
Looking ahead
ENIL emphasises that no one should feel compelled to seek death because society failed to provide the conditions necessary to live with dignity. The organisation therefore calls on governments and institutions to prioritise the realisation of the right to live independently and be included in the community.
The full position paper is available here: https://enil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ENIL-Position-Paper-on-Assisted-Dying-2026.pdf
