Dutch Psychiatrists Criticized for Questioning Euthanasia of 17-Year-Old

In a recent development, the Royal Dutch Medical Association (KNMG) has criticized a group of psychiatrists in the Netherlands for urging an investigation into the euthanasia of a 17-year-old girl. This case has intensified the ongoing debates around euthanasia practices in the country.

According to a report by Dutch News, fourteen prominent psychiatrists sent a letter to the public prosecution office. They requested an investigation to determine whether those close to the patient, identified as Milou, influenced her decision to opt for euthanasia. Milou, who had a history of sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, qualified for euthanasia on the grounds of “unbearable mental suffering.”

The psychiatrists raised concerns about the eligibility of minors for euthanasia and questioned if mental suffering could be deemed incurable. They expressed fears that the “widespread promotion of euthanasia” might lead to unnecessary deaths among minors.

In their response, KNMG described the psychiatrists’ letter as “improper and unacceptable.” The association emphasized that such actions could undermine public trust in medical professionals who carry out euthanasia.

Milou’s parents echoed KNMG’s sentiments, calling for an apology from the psychiatrists. They stated, “We expect that the fourteen doctors will realize after this statement from the KNMG that they have overstepped the mark and that the letter must be officially withdrawn.”

Professor Damiaan Denys, a signatory of the letter, responded to KNMG’s criticism. He described their reaction as “unnecessary, unwise, and late,” asserting that the intent was to highlight concerns over the ease with which euthanasia is considered for young individuals with mental health issues.

The Netherlands is recognized globally for having progressive euthanasia laws, allowing citizens to request it under broad circumstances. There has been an aumento in euthanasia requests related to mental illness, raising concerns among critics that euthanasia is becoming an accepted alternative for treating mental health conditions.