Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide in Some Countries: A Comparative Study

Abstract

The topic of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide is an emotive issue worldwide. The focus of this study is to explore the state of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide legislation in select African countries while comparing them to some states where euthanasia is legal. This study will raise a new body of knowledge on the state of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide legislation in the studied countries. The study employed a literature review approach where existing publications were studied in the course of the research. The study found that, although there is no evident legislation prohibiting euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide in the selected countries, the same is illegal. The research established that there is a need for the three selected countries (Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa) to review their legislation regarding euthanasia. Also, these findings could prove instrumental to legislators in reviewing individual nation's laws concerning euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.