ADPD on Wednesday criticised the government's consultation document on assisted voluntary euthanasia for being overly narrow and lacking depth. It treats the issue as merely a legal procedure, failing to address the real-life suffering caused by chronic and terminal illnesses, and avoids a holistic view of end-of-life care, ADPD said in a statement.

The party emphasised that ethical pluralism exists in Malta, and mature societies must engage in nuanced, informed discussions. Rather than polarising public debate, the government should lead with a detailed, transparent document - even if it exposes weaknesses in the healthcare system.

ADPD stressed that topics like living wills (biological testaments), withdrawal of treatment, palliative care, and voluntary euthanasia are deeply interconnected. There is a pressing need for a legal framework for living wills, which would ensure patients' end-of-life wishes are respected.

However, such directives are meaningless without access to high-quality palliative care. Malta severely lacks such services, especially in hospitals, elderly care homes, and private facilities. Pain management - particularly through effective medication like opioids - is inadequate due to fear of misuse, leading to unnecessary suffering.

The party asserts that pain control is a basic human right. Even with top-tier palliative care, there are limits, and in some cases, sedation or strong pain relief may unintentionally shorten life. This should be openly acknowledged, and patient autonomy respected, the party said.

Finally, ADPD called for continued democratic dialogue, empathy over dogma, and urgent government action. They demand access to essential medication, comprehensive end-of-life care, and legal proposals that prioritize patient dignity and informed choice.