Summary
Euthanasia accounted for 4.7% of deaths in Canada in 2023, with 15,300 people opting for assisted dying—a 16% increase, though slower than prior years.
Most recipients had terminal illnesses, primarily cancer, and 96% were white, sparking questions about disparities.
Quebec, at 37% of cases, remains Canada’s euthanasia hotspot.
Since legalizing assisted dying in 2016, Canada has expanded access, now covering chronic conditions and planning to include mental illnesses by 2027.
Critics, citing rapid growth and controversial cases, warn of insufficient safeguards, while proponents highlight strict eligibility criteria. Debate continues globally.
Killing oneself can be very hard, especially when you’re old as hell. Nobody is going to assist or even just allow you to kill yourself because if they did, they would be committing a crime. Sure if you have a cool grandchild they might get you a deadly dose of drugs. But that’s a huge risk you’re exposing your grandchild to if they get caught.
I see your point about the suffering being temporary, but the idea of being dead forever probably doesn’t really make the suffering any easier :P