Ecuador’s National Assembly has taken its first formal step toward regulating euthanasia, opening debate on a bill that would establish clear legal and medical rules for a practice that has so far depended largely on court decisions.
The proposal comes two years after the death of Paola Roldán, whose case forced the country to confront the question of whether people facing irreversible illness and severe suffering should be allowed to choose a medically assisted death.
Lawmakers are now working to turn that precedent into a structured legal framework. The draft law outlines who could qualify, how requests would be handled, and what responsibilities would fall on doctors, families, and the state.
Under the proposal, a person would need to:
- Be an adult capable of making an informed and voluntary decision
- Have a serious and incurable illness or irreversible condition
- Experience intense suffering linked to that condition
- Receive full information about diagnosis, treatment options, and palliative care
The bill also introduces two pathways for requesting euthanasia: a direct request made by a patient with full capacity, and an advance declaration for those whose condition may later prevent them from communicating their wishes.
Once a request is submitted, the health system would be required to follow defined protocols, including offering psychological support and palliative care. Patients would also retain the right to withdraw their request at any time.
The initial debate showed broad agreement that a legal framework is needed, but lawmakers made clear the bill will require revisions. Concerns raised included oversight of procedures, the balance between safeguards and bureaucracy, and the broader condition of the public healthcare system.
Some legislators warned that access to euthanasia should not outpace access to adequate medical care, pointing to ongoing gaps in treatment, diagnosis, and resources.
The bill has now been sent back to committee for revisions before returning for a second debate, where lawmakers will decide whether to move forward with final approval.