POPE LEO XIV SAYS ASSISTED DYING SHOULD NOT BE NORMALISED

** **

Pope Leo XIV has criticised assisted dying, saying the practice should not be regarded as normal or presented as an act of compassion.

The Pope made the remarks on Sunday during his visit to Lourdes, France, where he addressed people living with illness and disabilities.

He said every person should retain the certainty of their dignity regardless of their health condition, stressing the Catholic Church’s position that human life should be protected.

The Pope’s comments came as France implements legislation passed by Parliament in June that allows assisted dying for certain adults with incurable conditions.

The legislation has faced opposition from the Catholic Church in France, which previously described the move as a major departure from its position on the protection of life.

During his address, Pope Leo also warned against presenting the ending of a person’s life as a solution under the guise of compassion.

His comments form part of his four-day visit to France, during which he has addressed issues relating to human dignity, social responsibility and the protection of life.