Lessons from Canada: Euthanasia in New Zealand

Canada has become “the euthanasia capital of the world,” according to Amanda Achtman. Since legalising assisted death in 2016 and expanding access in 2021, what began as an exception with supposed safeguards has quickly become routine, now accounting for around 5% of Canadian deaths.

In this episode, Research Manager Maryanne Spurdle speaks with Canadian writer and advocate Amanda Achtman about how those changes unfolded and what they mean for New Zealand as Parliament considers similar reforms. Together they explore the risks of eroding safeguards, the impact on people with disabilities and the elderly, the pressure placed on health workers, and the danger of normalising assisted death in hospitals, hospices, and care homes.

Amanda also shares stories that reveal the cultural cost of making euthanasia commonplace, and highlights why palliative care and genuine support are essential.