Euthanasia and assisted suicide: Who are the vulnerable?

This article examines the multifaceted concept of vulnerability in the context of euthanasia and assisted suicide (EAS), highlighting its complexity beyond traditional definitions focused on diminished autonomy or social oppression. It identifies various dimensions of vulnerability affecting not only patients—who may be vulnerable physically, mentally, morally, socially, and spiritually—but also healthcare providers and society at large. The discussion addresses tensions between protecting vulnerable groups from harm and avoiding discriminatory exclusion from EAS, while also considering existential vulnerability related to loss of meaning in life as a central concern. The authors argue that a comprehensive understanding of vulnerability, which complements autonomy, is essential for ethical discourse on EAS and may challenge simplistic justifications for its legalization.