New assisted suicide legislation in Scotland would open a 'Pandora's Box', according to disability policy advisor Dr Miro Griffiths. He says that the proposals being brought forward by Liam McArthur MSP 'represent a dangerous idea that would see the vulnerable and marginalised in society placed at risk of irreversible harm'. Dr Griffiths spoke about his own experience of living with disabilities: ‘My strength, respiratory functioning, and swallowing will continue to deteriorate. I require a power wheelchair, 24-hour personal assistance, and various medical interventions every day. I hope readers will realise that I, and many others in my community, approach this issue in a way that others in society will not.’ Canada legalised assisted suicide and euthanasia in 2016; within five years, the law was expanded and key safeguards were removed. There has been a tenfold rise in assisted suicides since the law was changed. Dr Griffiths concluded by saying that a change in the law was simply too dangerous, especially in the context of stretched public services.
Scotland: legalising assisted suicide would open 'Pandora's Box'
Written by David Fletcher 12 Oct 2023Additional Info
- Pray: for Godly wisdom and compassion in Scotland's decision on assisted suicide, guarding against harm, protecting the sanctity of life. (Proverbs 31:8)
- More: care.org.uk/news/2023/10/scotland-legalising-assisted-suicide-would-open-pandoras-box