Report on Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) Program and Potential
Human Rights Violations
Introduction

Canada's Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) program has been a significant part of the

country’s healthcare system since it was legalized in 2016. Initially intended to allow those with

terminal illnesses or unbearable suffering to end their lives with medical assistance, the program

has expanded over time to include people with mental health conditions. This expansion has

raised concerns, particularly regarding the potential for coercion and the inclusion of vulnerable

individuals. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

has voiced extreme concern regarding Canada’s MAID laws, particularly with respect to their

impact on people with disabilities and mental illnesses.

Recent studies and reports from advocacy groups highlight that the law has led to serious

human rights violations, including potential coercion and undue influence on individuals

seeking euthanasia. Furthermore, the increasing number of people who have died through

MAID—reportedly more than 13,000-14,000 individuals by 2022—has raised serious ethical

and legal questions about the administration of the program.

This report examines the legal and ethical concerns surrounding MAID in Canada, the

implications for vulnerable populations, and the potential international legal repercussions.

Key Concerns with Canada’s MAID Law

1. Expansion of Eligibility:

The original intent of Canada’s MAID program was to provide a peaceful death for those

suffering from terminal conditions. However, the law was expanded in 2021 to include

individuals with mental health conditions, even if their deaths were not reasonably

foreseeable. In response to growing concerns about this expansion, disability rights

organizations have called for the cessation of MAID for people with non-terminal

conditions, as these individuals are often coerced into ending their lives due to societal

pressures or lack of adequate support systems.

2. Coercion and Vulnerability:

Numerous reports from advocacy groups have revealed that individuals, particularly

those with intellectual disabilities and mental health conditions, have faced coercion in

the MAID process. This could involve subtle pressure from family members, healthcare

providers, or even a lack of adequate alternative care. Coercion is particularly concerning

when it involves people who may be unable to fully understand the implications of their

decision due to mental health conditions or other vulnerabilities.

3. Alarming Statistics:

Since the legalization of MAID, over 10,000 individuals had undergone assisted death

by 2021, with the number rising to 13,000-14,000 in 2022. 

Links for full report ....

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bordode_urgent-discussion-on-canadas-maid-program-activity-7313620261239418882-_Lm2?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAAt6uLcB9eCXh00Vx5OVADPaaTkkR-5ZvjA

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