The term euthanasia originates in Ancient Greece, but the definition of the word has been changing throughout centuries. The most common translation is “a gentle and easy death”. There are several types of euthanasia, the most common being voluntary and involuntary euthanasia and active and passive euthanasia.
The topic has always attracted different opinions, but the main subject of discussion remains the question of its admissibility. Euthanasia supporters and opponents both use a number of arguments to substantiate their views. Supporters focus on human rights, particularly the right to die with dignity, the right to autonomy and the right to self-determination. Opponents, however, mostly oppose legalisation on the basis of sanctity of human life.
The world and even European countries have different opinions about euthanasia – some have already legalised the act while some are strongly against it. The Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg allow for voluntary euthanasia, which is prohibited in the majority of states, including Slovenia.
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