GLOBAL POLICIES AND ETHICAL PERSPECTIVES ON EUTHANASIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW Bella Wiranti (a*), Arih Diyaning Intiasari (b), Dwi Sarwani Sri Rejeki (c)
(a,b)Department of Public Health, Postgraduate Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University, Jalan Dr. Soeparno Karangwangkal, Banyumas 53123, Indonesia
(c)Research Centre of Rural Health, Institute for Research and Community Service, Jenderal Soedirman University, Indonesia
Abstract
Background: Euthanasia and assisted dying have become subjects of global debate, reflecting tensions between individual autonomy, legal safeguards, and cultural values. Although several countries have legalized euthanasia or medical assistance in dying (MAiD), diverse ethical and policy perspectives persist.
Aims: This study aimed to systematically review global policies and ethical perspectives on euthanasia and assisted dying between 2020 and 2025, identifying dominant principles, controversies, and emerging gaps.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted using major databases with keywords such as ^euthanasia,^ ^assisted dying,^ ^global policy,^ and ^ethical perspectives.^ The screening followed SPIDER and PICOS frameworks, yielding 9 eligible studies. Data were analyzed narratively with thematic synthesis.
Results: Findings reveal that most jurisdictions adopt conservative legal frameworks with strict safeguards, including eligibility restrictions and multiple independent assessments. Patient autonomy and relief of suffering remain the most frequently cited ethical justifications, while sanctity of life, justice, and conscientious objection represent central counterarguments. Empirical studies highlight ethical tensions, including restrictive eligibility criteria undermining autonomy, unequal access due to sociocultural factors, and professional stigma among practitioners.
Conclusion: Euthanasia policies are evolving within complex intersections of law, ethics, and culture. Recommendations include refining safeguards to better respect autonomy, improving cultural equity, and formalizing conscientious objection mechanisms. Future research should address complex cases, particularly psychiatric and non-terminal conditions, to strengthen ethical and policy frameworks.
Keywords: Assisted Dying- Autonomy- Euthanasia- Ethics- Global Policy.
