French PM under fire for plans to split controversial assisted dying bill
Prime Minister François Bayrou has drawn strong criticism after proposing to split France's long-awaited end-of-life legislation into two separate laws. Opponents warn the move could delay assisted dying reforms.
The legislation, which would legalise assisted dying and improve palliative care, followed years of public consultation including a citizens' convention that recommended comprehensive changes to both areas.
The original single bill reached parliament in early 2024 but stalled when the National Assembly was dissolved in June.
Bayrou, a devout Catholic, now wants to separate the two issues into distinct laws, a move that has exposed divisions both within parliament and the governing coalition.
Mounting criticism
"This is a way of abandoning the project to legalise assisted dying," said left-wing lawmaker Éric Coquerel.
The move has drawn particular anger from opposition parties who see it as a tactical maneuver rather than a genuine attempt at reform.
"We know François Bayrou's convictions on this subject. The position of a minority prime minister in a very precarious political context cannot be imposed on the National Assembly," said Socialist MP Jérôme Guedj.
French lawmakers open tense two-week debate on assisted dying
Even within the government coalition, the plan has caused unease. Former minister Prisca Thevenot questioned the change.
However, conservative politicians have welcomed splitting the legislation.
Meanwhile government spokesperson Sophie Prima underlined assisted dying reforms would not be abandoned.
Read more on RFI English
Read also:
French government presents bill to let terminally ill patients end their lives
France prioritises bill to boost end-of-life care following citizens’ report
France begins citizens' debate on end-of-life care