The map above visualises how different countries approach the issue: some permit active voluntary euthanasia, others allow only passive euthanasia, many prohibit all forms, and several simply have no clear regulation.

According to data compiled by World Population Review, active voluntary euthanasia is legal in a handful of countries, including Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, and all six Australian states.

In other jurisdictions, only passive euthanasia is permitted (for example, withdrawal of life-support) or the practice remains entirely illegal.

Recent developments bring this issue into sharper focus. For instance, on October 16, 2025, Uruguay became the first major Latin-American country to pass legislation allowing active euthanasia for adults suffering from incurable and irreversible illness. At the same time, in Europe, the draft bill in France to legalise assisted dying is gaining traction, raising fresh discussions about end-of-life rights.

As populations age and medical technology advances, discussions around death with dignity, patient autonomy and the role of health-care professionals are intensifying. Countries that once prohibited euthanasia are reconsidering, and societies are grappling with how to balance compassion, safeguards and ethical principles.