National bioethics committees and the issue of deathNational bioethics committees play an important role in assessing ethical dilemmas in medicine and biotechnology, particularly in debates on assisted death, including palliative care, euthanasia, and assisted suicide. Composed of experts from various disciplines, these committees weigh principles such as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Their functions include advising lawmakers, fostering public debate, and shaping legal ethical frameworks. This text analyzes arguments in favor—such as respect for autonomy, relief of suffering, and human dignity—and against, such as the inherent value of life, the risk of abuse, and conflicts with medical ethics. Examples of national bioethics committees in Spain, France, and Italy illustrate both similar and differing approaches. National bioethics committees are essential for guiding policy and promoting balanced dialogue.
Keywords
National bioethics commissions; Political incidence processes; Assisted dying; Politics; Bioethical principles