A child under age 12 in the Netherlands underwent euthanasia for the first time since new regulations took effect expanding access to the procedure for younger minors, according to Dutch News, citing the country’s health minister.
National broadcaster NOS reported that the procedure was carried out late last year on a terminally ill child. Authorities did not disclose the child’s age, diagnosis or other identifying details.
Investigation conducted
According to the health minister, a special review committee examined the circumstances of the case, interviewed the physician who performed the procedure and submitted its findings to the relevant oversight authority.
New rules took effect in 2024
The regulations, which took effect in 2024, allow euthanasia for children ages 1 to 12 who are terminally ill and experiencing “unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement.”
Previously, euthanasia was permitted only for infants younger than 1 and adolescents age 12 and older.
Under Dutch law, the decision to proceed with euthanasia must be made by the child’s parents and treating physicians. The patient’s condition must be deemed irreversible, with no reasonable prospect of improvement, including through palliative care.
First country to legalize euthanasia
The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize euthanasia as a medical procedure. The law took effect in 2002.
Read also: South Korea’s great unspoken: Over half of families won’t talk about death.
Dutch authorities have said they expect euthanasia cases involving children ages 1 to 12 to remain rare, estimating that the number will not exceed five cases per year.
