Tom Koch, an ethicist and researcher, reviewed how things have evolved in the realm of euthanasia since its legalisation in Canada in 2016. Euthanasia has indeed shown to be a “slippery slope”. The eligibility criteria for euthanasia have broadened considerably resulting in a steady increase in the number of people opting for euthanasia. Between 2016 and 2020 the number of reported cases of medical termination increased from 1018 to 7589. This is the very definition of a “slippery slope”. Eligibility criteria have loosened to such an extent that people who are simply afraid of possible future illnesses can choose to end their lives. The other finding which raises concern is that euthanasia appears to be a substitute for palliative care and other supportive services. It was shown that euthanasia is at times promoted especially to those who live in areas where expert care and support are difficult to access. It appears that those so in need are somehow not worthy of supportive care that would make their life worthwhile. The results of the Canadian 5 year review are a cause for concern rather than a recommendation for euthanasia.
