An examination of the constitutionality of euthanasia in Uganda
Abstract
Euthanasia, also commonly known as assisted dying, has been continuously frowned upon worldwide. It has been argued that artificially terminating the life of a human is largely an unethical act even though there is any rationale or motivation by the person requesting euthanasia. This argument is however flawed. It fails to take into consideration various circumstances and situations that might lead one to make such a request. It also fails to balance the fact that the right to life and the right to health are inclusive of the right to choose how one dies. This paper discusses the need for the Government of Uganda to legalise euthanasia to a certain degree in certain situations. It also highlights certain safeguards that should be put in place by the legislators to guard against misuse of euthanasia by the selected practitioners and the general public.