著者

柴嵜 雅子 シバサキ マサオコ Masako Shibasaki

雑誌

国際研究論叢 : 大阪国際大学紀要 = OIU journal of international studies

巻号頁・発行日

vol.24, no.1, pp.51-64, 2010-10-31

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In Switzerland right-to-die organizations have legally helped the members to end their intolerable lives thanks to the country’s criminal code that does not outlaw assistance in suicide unless it is motivated by self-interest. The voluntary termination of one’s own life after due consideration is accepted by the general public as a personal and responsible choice. This paper, focusing on the two major institutions, Exit Deutsche Schweiz and Dignitas, first outlines the unique practice and the controversies triggered; especially by Dignitas which extends the service to foreigners. Secondly, two characteristics of the groups’ procedures are explored; those who seek help in dying are strongly advised to have their family or friends involved in the process in order to avoid a lonely death; trained volunteers, not doctors, assist in the final moment. The system can be construed as a way to reclaim “one’s own death” in a highly medicalized society.