Euthanasia

Euthanasia

Women’s Forum Australia is opposed to the practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide, and any legislation that legalises such practices.

Autonomy is often the principal argument used for legalising euthanasia and assisted suicide. However, the literature suggests that “gendered risks” may thwart women’s autonomy in end of life decisions, making them uniquely vulnerable to euthanasia and assisted suicide laws. 

Biological factors, structural inequalities, disparities in power, social and economic disadvantage and cultural stereotypes that may underlie the decisions of some women are gender distinctive and challenge the rhetoric of choice.

Legalisation could in fact compound oppressive sociocultural influences and facilitate the last of many non-choices for women.

Women’s Forum Australia believes that the legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide sends a very clear and public message that some lives are less worthy than others and that suicide can be a positive solution.

WFA Blogs


WFA Research


Research Note, 2018 - The Gendered Risks of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

WFA Submissions


Inquiry into the Rights of the Terminally Ill (Euthanasia Laws Repeal) Bill 2008

WFA Fact Sheets


Fact Sheet, 2017 - The Gendered Risks of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

WFA Published Articles


We need to address questions of gender in assisted dying, Rachael Wong
Laws are needed to save voiceless, Katrina George

We Recommend You Read


A Woman's Choice? The Gendered Risks of Voluntary Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide, Katrina George
A Feminist Case Against Self-Determined Dying in Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia, Sidney Callahan
Gender, Feminism and Death: Physician-Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia, Susan Wolf