2 Percent of Dutch Deaths by Euthanasia

[Shin]

The number of reported Dutch cases of euthanasia or assisted suicide rose 13 percent last year, the government said on Wednesday, spurring talk of a possible “euthanasia hospital” to help people end their lives. The annual report of the regional commissions that oversee the Netherlands’ euthanasia law said there were 2,636 cases in 2009, the vast majority of them euthanasia, or “mercy killing“, as opposed to assisted suicide, or helping someone to die.

That represented about 2 per cent of all Dutch deaths last year, based on figures from Statistics Netherlands. Of the cases, slightly over 80 percent were cancer patients and more than 80 per cent of the deaths occurred in the patient’s home.

The rise follows a 10.5 per cent rise in 2008, bolstering a campaign for more formal facilities to end peoples’ lives.

The Netherlands was the first country to permit euthanasia for the terminally ill. Switzerland has become better known, though, for its liberal laws on assisted suicide and a “death tourism” industry has developed as a result.

- Reuters Excerpts

[Bailey2]

About 6 months ago, I was horrified when our newspaper had a full feature article in a Sunday issue about a couple taking lethal barbituites together after saying good-bye to family and each other.  they held hands during the process........ it was horrifying, especially since the journalist seemed to be glamorizing it.  The paper promptly got a letter from me (as usual  )   

You do know of course,  that within 20 yrs there will be widespread psychological pressure to do this in every westernized country.  It is cost effective for the government.  Eventually, I hate to see it, but I fear a forced situation via financial penalties, etc (to aid the psychological).

[Brigid]

You do know of course,  that within 20 yrs there will be widespread psychological pressure to do this in every westernized country.

I wouldn't be surprised, but am wondering where you got the 20 yr. date?

[Bailey2]

At my age, everything is in 20 yr intervals:  "Remember 20 yrs ago when..."   "Twenty years from now........."   
I suspect that should drop down to 10 yrs soon when thinking about the future......... and 30 when I look back   "   

[Brigid]

  I know what you mean.

[Shin]

About 6 months ago, I was horrified when our newspaper had a full feature article in a Sunday issue about a couple taking lethal barbituites together after saying good-bye to family and each other.  they held hands during the process........ it was horrifying, especially since the journalist seemed to be glamorizing it.  The paper promptly got a letter from me (as usual  )   

You do know of course,  that within 20 yrs there will be widespread psychological pressure to do this in every westernized country.  It is cost effective for the government.  Eventually, I hate to see it, but I fear a forced situation via financial penalties, etc (to aid the psychological).

I think you've got a little prophetic foresight there.. My only fear is that it might not even take that long!