The Netherlands plans to make history by legalising mercy killings in a controversial government bill that would also make children as young as 12 eligible for euthanasia.
The bill, delivered to the lower house of parliament on Monday, proposes immunity from criminal prosecution for doctors provided they follow strict guidelines when performing euthanasia.
The law would also apply to incurably ill young children, so long as the parents agreed. In exceptional circumstances, a doctor could perform euthanasia even without parental consent.
"In the case of 12- to 15-year-olds the consent of the parents or guardian is required, but in the event of refusal a minor's request may nevertheless be met if the doctor is convinced this would prevent serious detriment to the patient," the Justice and Health ministries said.
The bill also recognises for the first time the validity of written requests to die.
Both the Voluntary Euthanasia Society (NVVE) and the Royal Dutch Medical Association (KNMG) welcomed the development, which removes already liberal Dutch policy from a legal grey area.
"After more than 25 years of discussion there will be legislation for death at one's own request. This is a significant step in the right direction," the NVVE said.
Political opposition was expected from the main opposition party, the Christian Democrats, and small Calvinist parties. But provided the three government parties unite behind the bill, its passage through parliament should be smooth.
The Dutch have tolerated mercy killings for years, but right-to-die campaigners and doctors have long pressed for immunity from criminal prosecution for doctors.
In 1997 a doctor was charged with murder after allegedly ignoring euthanasia guidelines when he injected a patient with a fatal dose of insulin.
The KNMG said cases of terminally-ill children requesting death were few, and the vital dialogue and relationship between doctor, patient and family would remain.
"The doctor will do his utmost to try to reach an agreement between patient and parents," said a KNMG spokeswoman. "If there is no unanimous agreement, then it is the doctor's duty to fulfil the wishes of the patient."
In all cases, doctors must adhere strictly to guidelines. The patient, who must be facing unbearable suffering, must make the request on a voluntary, well-considered and sustained basis. There must be no reasonable alternative, and the doctor must give advice on the patient's situation and consequences.
The doctor must also consult at least one other independent physician who also agrees with the due-care requirements.