**Dutch Doctors Euthanize Child Under 12 for First Time**
In a significant development regarding euthanasia laws in the Netherlands, a child under the age of 12 has been euthanized for the first time, as confirmed by Health Minister Sophie Hermans. This event marks a notable extension of the country's euthanasia regulations, which were revised in 2024 to include terminally ill children in exceptional circumstances.
According to local media reports, the euthanasia procedure took place toward the end of last year. The specific details regarding the child's age, sex, and medical condition have not been disclosed. Following the procedure, the case was submitted to a specialized review committee established to evaluate such instances. Minister Hermans indicated that the committee has conducted a thorough review, including discussions with the attending physician. The findings from this review have been forwarded to prosecutors, who will determine whether the procedure adhered to Dutch law. An official assessment of the case is anticipated to be released soon.
The new regulations allow doctors to perform euthanasia on children under 12 if it is determined that the child is suffering unbearably from an incurable illness and that no reasonable treatment options remain. In addition, parental consent is a prerequisite for the procedure. When the policy was introduced, Dutch authorities estimated that it would apply to no more than five to ten children annually.
Prior to this change, there was no formal policy governing euthanasia for children aged between one and 12 years. The conditions that might qualify a child for euthanasia often include severe congenital disorders affecting vital organs or metabolic diseases. The Dutch broadcaster NOS reported that these conditions are among the most common reasons for considering euthanasia in pediatric cases.
The introduction of this policy has sparked political controversy, particularly among the country’s two main Christian parties, which have voiced their opposition. Additionally, some medical experts have expressed concerns that the involvement of prosecutors in determining the legality of each case may deter doctors from proceeding with euthanasia, despite the review committee's recommendations.
Historically, in cases where euthanasia was not an option, doctors could provide palliative sedation or cease administering food and fluids, allowing for a gradual death process that could extend over several weeks.
The Netherlands has been at the forefront of euthanasia legislation since it became the first country to legalize the practice in 2002. In 2014, Belgium followed suit by removing age restrictions on euthanasia, thus allowing minors to access the procedure under specific conditions.
In 2025, the Netherlands recorded over 10,000 euthanasia cases, which accounted for approximately 6% of all deaths in the country, according to data from the Regional Euthanasia Review Committees. The ongoing discussions surrounding euthanasia laws reflect broader societal debates about ethics, medical practice, and the rights of patients and families in end-of-life decisions.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this landmark case will influence future discussions and policies regarding euthanasia for minors in the Netherlands and beyond.