Working towards a self-determined end of life at one’s own place of residence; Growing internationality and complexity
08 April 2025
Review of the year 2024 and outlook for 2025
In 2024, the long-standing international legal commitment of the non-profit membership association “DIGNITAS – To live with dignity – To die with dignity” and the political activities for the human right to self-determination regarding one’s own end in life were continued. In Switzerland, the association continues to focus on securing access to assisted suicide for residents of public homes. A case initiated by DIGNITAS against France is pending at the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). In the operational area, the comprehensive advisory work for individuals seeking help and suicide attempt prevention remained at the core of DIGNITAS’ activities. The association is receiving enquiries from an increasing number of countries and the medical conditions of those requesting assisted dying are becoming increasingly complex.
DIGNITAS is a non-profit membership association. Through its activities it empowers people to self-determinedly shape their life in regard of health and end of life and moreover to decide on the manner and time of their own end in life. This is especially significant in countries where such freedom does not yet exist. With open-outcome advisory work on suicide attempt prevention, advance directives, palliative care and accompanied suicide DIGNITAS offers its members, their families, and others who are interested the necessary basis for decision-making.
