Euthanasia: The appropriate form of law for Thai society

Abstract

Currently, medical technology has rapidly advanced, aiding in more effective disease diagnosis and treatment, leading to longer life expectancy. However, the measure of successful medical treatment often neglects the quality of life for patients who survive due to new treatment technologies. Successful medical outcomes should focus on prolonging meaningful life rather than simply prolonging the dying process.

In Thailand, research on euthanasia and end-of-life rights has often concluded that the right to die is a personal bodily autonomy right. Euthanasia practices in other countries, where lawful, typically involve either active euthanasia conducted by a physician or physician-assisted suicide where a physician provides medication for self-administration. In Thailand, researchers suggest that future euthanasia laws should involve physicians providing assistance rather than directly conducting the procedure.