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.