Euthanasia is being promoted in Belgium as a “beautiful” and positive way to die. In an op-ed in the Knack news website, journalist Marleen Finoulst says that a patient’s wishes should be respected.

“Patients should always have the last word. If someone really wants to die, we must dare to help them. Better that than lonely people jumping in front of trains, hanging themselves or drowning themselves -- afterwards to be found by horrified relatives.

“The beauty of euthanasia is that you can say goodbye and have a dignified death surrounded by your loved ones, your family or friends, who often have stood by your side for years while you suffered. Experience shows that it is often very serene farewell. It is a way of dying which is bearable for everyone.”