The Case Against Legalizing Medically Assisted Suicide or Voluntary Active Euthanasia in Islamic Regions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This essay presents arguments against legalizing medically assisted suicide (MAS) or voluntary active euthanasia (VAE) in Islamic regions. MAS and VAE should be determined by particular regions based on their respective mainstream moral cultures. Taking the Islamic regions of Bangladesh as examples, the essay argues that MAS or VAE should not be legalized in such regions because it would contradict the Islamic classical moral convictions, authentic interpretations, and relevant bioethical codes that prioritize saving human lives and providing quality palliative care rather than MAS or VAE for patients. The essay also provides practical ethical justifications for why the implementation of a non-legalization policy does not disregard non-Muslims in these regions, including secular liberals who may not align with the predominant Islamic moral culture concerning MAS and VAE.
Authors: Sanwar Siraj, Ruiping Fan
Institutions: University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,973
OpenAlex ID: W7131130178