Euthanasia is the name given to the act of mercy killing, or assisted suicide. The basis of this controversial act stems from the argument that if a person is suffering from an incurable disease or his standard of living is deteriorating then they may be allowed to choose death as a better alternative. A person has a right over what they choose to do with their own bodies, and if they want to escape from the pain of living under the influence of a debilitating illness then assisted suicide might just be the noble path forward.
The act of euthanasia can be classified into three categories. First is ‘voluntary euthanasia’ which is conducted with the consent of the patient. Second is ‘involuntary euthanasia’, which takes place without the consent of the patient, as they might be too far gone, or in too much pain to make this decision themselves so a family member or loved one makes it on their behalf. Third is ‘non-voluntary euthanasia’ which involves children who have not yet developed an awareness of the world around them.
These three categories can be further classified in to two types. These are ‘active’ and ‘passive’ euthanasia. The former involves dying with the use of a lethal substance, while the latter involves withholding mandatory treatment for their disease or illness, eventually resulting in death.
A shortage of medical facilities, and a lack of proper health care, has resulted in countless people having to live with incurable diseases that they do not have the resources, or the access, to effectively treat. For many of them, euthanasia might provide the relief that they have so desperately been searching for
The proponents of euthanasia argue that is inherently better for a suffering patient to embrace death, than to live out their lives in eternal pain. Its opponents however argue that the idea itself is immoral and a crime against humanity. They also reason that not all incurable diseases cause debilitating pain, and many can be contained to give patients a reasonable life before they pass away. Today the practice of euthanasia has been adopted by several countries around the globe, and considering all the factors, perhaps it is time that more nations try to do the same.
In Pakistan, the situation is quite complicated. Even though we like to see ourselves as compassionate human beings with a respect for life and a deep belief in our freedoms, many would still consider euthanasia an immoral activity. Take for example the plight of the poor in this country. Where there is already a shortage of medical facilities, and a lack of proper health care, many in our society have been living with incurable diseases that they do not have the resources, or the access to effectively treat. For many of them, euthanasia might provide the relief that they have so desperately been searching for. However, in doing so they would be subject to questions about morality and faith. In the end they are left to choose between a moral life of pain and destitution, or the immoral option of eternal peace.
What is essential is that government needs to address this issue at once and formulate a plan over the legalisation of euthanasia in the country. This will go a long way in bringing the countless victims of incurable diseases and illnesses in the country the much needed respite that they crave and deserve.
The writer has a BBA degree from IoBM, Karachi
Published in Daily Times, June 26th 2018.