Child under 12 first euthanised in Netherlands

Euthanasia. Photo: Shutter stock

On June 24, 2026, it became known about the first case of euthanasia of a child under 12 in the Netherlands following the expansion of the relevant legislation. The child died at the end of last year, reports The European Conservative.

Dutch Health Minister Sophie Hermans revealed the case in a letter to parliament. No details about the child’s age, gender, or medical condition have been disclosed.

The Netherlands legalised euthanasia for terminally ill children aged between one and 12 in 2024. Before the change, euthanasia was only available to newborns under specific circumstances and to children aged 12 and over.

Under current rules, euthanasia of a child is permitted only in cases where the child is experiencing unbearable suffering, has no prospect of recovery, and is expected to die in the foreseeable future. Parental consent is also required for the procedure to be carried out.

The case has already been reviewed by a specialized committee that examines cases of medical care for children resulting in death. The committee discussed the circumstances with the physician and forwarded its findings to the prosecutor's office, which must determine whether the procedure complied with Dutch legislation.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Anglican Church approved special liturgies for euthanasia deaths.

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