National bioethics committees and the issue of death

Authors

Abstract

National 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:

Aid in dying, National bioethics commissions, Political incidence processes, Policy, Bioethical principles, National bioethics commissions. Political incidence processes. Assisted dying. Politics. Bioethical principles.

Author Biography

Carlos Jesús Molina-Ricaurte, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia. Bogotá, Colombia.

Carlos Jesús Molina-Ricaurte – Magíster – carlosj.molina@campusucc.edu.co
0000-0001-6575-5170

Vol. 33 (2025): Continued publication

Published:

2025-10-07

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1983-803420253812ES

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How to Cite

1.
Molina-Ricaurte CJ. National bioethics committees and the issue of death. Rev. Bioét. [Internet]. 2025 Oct. 7 [cited 2025 Oct. 9];33. Available from: https://www.revistabioetica.cfm.org.br/revista_bioetica/article/view/3812

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