Euthanasia: the Colombian legal framework

Abstract

This text analyzes the legal provisions regarding euthanasia established in the Colombian legal
system from 1997 to 2021 and examines euthanasia from an individual perspective as an exercise of
human freedom. It presents a legal framework based on a review of key decisions by the Colombian
Constitutional Court and, finally, proposes a discussion on each individual’s free and autonomous choice
to undergo the euthanasia procedure. The findings highlight the conditions established by the Colombian
Constitutional Court, under which patients may expect the euthanasia procedure to be carried out
effectively and, therefore, have their right to die with dignity protected.