Caritas Malta has raised alarm over the introduction of euthanasia legislation, warning it risks eroding human dignity and putting vulnerable people under pressure, even as Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed the government intends to eventually table a bill.
Speaking on the final day of the public consultation process, Abela acknowledged the government had received a “voluminous” number of submissions and said these would be carefully analysed before any law is drafted. While stressing the debate should not be politicised, Abela said that “eventually, there will be legislation,” reiterating that the government had already invested heavily in palliative care.
In its statement, Caritas welcomed the public’s engagement but voiced deep concern that any move toward legalising assisted suicide or euthanasia could have unintended consequences. Citing experiences from countries like Belgium, Caritas warned that such laws, even when initially framed with strict safeguards, tend to expand over time, eventually applying to individuals with mental health challenges and minors.
“As Caritas Malta, we are constant witnesses to people recovering from suicidal ideation through proper care and support,” the statement read. “Opening the door to assisted suicide for those with mental health difficulties is a grave concern.”
Caritas also flagged concerns about socioeconomic pressure, saying that those with fewer resources could feel compelled to choose euthanasia to avoid being a burden. “A law that opens the door for someone to feel like a burden should not be contemplated,” the statement warned.
The government’s proposal currently limits euthanasia to terminally ill adults expected to die within six months, and includes strict criteria, such as sound mental health and a one-week reflection period. Presenting euthanasia as an option would also be criminalised under the draft framework.
Still, Caritas remains unconvinced. “A law that begins with compassion may evolve into one that subtly promotes death,” it said, arguing instead for strengthened palliative care as the most dignified option. “People should die in the hands of others, not at the hand of others.”
While groups such as Moviment Graffitti and ADPD have expressed support for euthanasia under strict regulation, Caritas urges caution and prioritisation of holistic care over legislative reform.
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