Life Network Foundation expressed deep concern on Thursday over the Maltese government's proposal to introduce voluntary euthanasia. While framed as a compassionate choice under strict conditions, euthanasia is not care, but the deliberate termination of a human life, the foundation said. True care means standing by those who are suffering, ensuring they receive the dignity, comfort, and support they deserve in their final days. 

Palliative care remains the most humane and ethical approach to end-of-life treatment. It is a field that continues to evolve. The recent launch of Malta's National Palliative Care Strategy 2025-2035 underscores the government position that there is still much more to do in Malta to ensure that patients receive dignified, holistic support throughout their illness through palliative care services. 

The introduction of euthanasia undermines the very foundation of palliative care, the foundation said. In countries where euthanasia has been legalised, palliative care services have been deprioritised, leading to less investment in the compassionate treatment of terminally ill patients. Rather than presenting death as a solution, policymakers must work to ensure every patient receives the best possible care until their natural passing. 

Beyond the fundamental ethical concerns, the proposal raises serious practical and medical issues. Predicting death within six months is scientifically questionable. Numerous cases exist of patients defying terminal prognoses. The risk of erroneous assessments could lead to irreversible consequences. 

Furthermore, ensuring that euthanasia is entirely voluntary and free from coercion is impossible, as demonstrated in countries where euthanasia is legal. Studies have shown instances where vulnerable individuals feel pressured, explicitly or implicitly, to opt for euthanasia due to social, financial, or healthcare burdens, the foundation said. 

Equally concerning is the government's proposal mandating that objecting medical practitioners refer to patients for euthanasia. This infringes on their fundamental right to conscientious objection, forcing healthcare professionals to participate indirectly in a practice they find morally objectionable. Such a policy undermines medical ethics and places undue pressure on doctors who are dedicated to preserving life. 

Rather than introducing euthanasia, we urge the government to focus on expanding palliative care resources, increasing awareness, and ensuring that no patient feels abandoned or pressured into choosing death over care. Every person deserves to live their final moments with dignity, surrounded by compassionate support, not faced with the option of premature death. 

Life Network Foundation calls on policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the Maltese public to engage in a meaningful dialogue that prioritizes life, care, and dignity. Let us work together to strengthen palliative care and uphold the fundamental value of human life.