Scottish parliament rejects euthanasia bill

The chamber of the Scottish Parliament. Photo: Andy Buchanan / AFP

On March 18, 2026, the Scottish Parliament rejected a bill to legalize euthanasia after prolonged debate, declining to support an initiative backed by advocates of legislative change, European Conservative reports.

The decision followed a four-hour debate: 69 lawmakers voted against the measure, 57 supported it, and one abstained. The group Care Not Killing described the vote as an important victory for the protection of vulnerable people.

A similar bill for England and Wales was previously approved by the House of Commons, despite criticism from the government. At the same time, the health and justice secretaries voiced doubts, and the House of Lords could still block the bill’s final passage.

A number of experts and politicians welcomed the decision. Law lecturer Philip Murray said it marked the return of “common sense,” while Lord Moylan said the campaign in support of euthanasia had lost momentum. Lawmaker Murdo Fraser said the measure had failed despite receiving broad backing.

At the same time, supporters of euthanasia say they intend to continue their campaign. One lobbyist noted that they need to succeed only once, whereas opponents have to win every time.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Paris police had broken up a peaceful protest against euthanasia.

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