Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1530259
15 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 8 DECEMBER 2024 OPINION what on the fence on this topic. On the one hand, I believe that extreme forms of pain, where no medical solutions exist, should be given an outlet to relieve oneself from that suffering—something I would want for myself. On the other hand, the truth is that advancements in palliative care can provide effective pain management and emotional sup- port for terminally ill patients, offering a humane alternative to euthanasia. Palliative care is be- coming an increasingly effective science, and both the methodol- ogy and investment have grown exponentially, which is why the focus should be on improving end-of-life care rather than nor- malising euthanasia. Moreover, our legislators do not provide me with the serenity that a mature discussion and strong enough leg- islation would be implemented. The flaws in both abortion and cannabis laws highlight how law- makers often feel compelled to legislate not based on rational, scientific, or moral reasoning but in response to public pressure, swinging between opposing posi- tions depending on the outcry at the time. To conclude, I believe we need to explore regulating euthanasia. This practice should be allowed under strict conditions, namely, consent from the patient, psycho- logical evaluation, and oversight by an independent panel. Cultur- al and religious sensitivities need to also be respected, as should diverse cultural beliefs and views on the morality of euthanasia. Fi- nally, a focus on individual cases and ethical deliberation can help balance compassion with caution, and this is in line with the debate to introduce a living will. So, yes, it is definitely opening Pandora's box, but hell, aren't we late in putting this matter on the agenda? such as the involvement of the ju- diciary in the process. I look forward to eventually see- ing this issue properly debated in Malta. Labour's electoral man- ifesto clearly outlines the need for a national discussion on the introduction of voluntary eutha- nasia for terminally ill patients. Prime Minister Robert Abela has publicly stated that, as promised, the discussion will take place and serve as a precursor to a decision that must be made. I hope the debate will be civ- ilised, mature, and rooted in facts. I'm not holding my breath, though, given what I've wit- nessed during the divorce, civil unions, and IVF debates, among other issues in recent years. However, I firmly believe that, as in other circumstances, at the end of the day, the realities faced by people and their needs will prevail. box, but we are late to the debate realities of people will prevail Andrew Azzopardi is a professor and former Dean of the Faculty for Social Wellbeing at the University of Malta Daniel Micallef is a former Labour Party president and ex-deputy leader for party affairs I look forward to eventually seeing this issue properly debated in Malta. Labour's electoral manifesto clearly outlines the need for a national discussion on the introduction of voluntary euthanasia for terminally ill patients.