2 months ago
32 New Zealand has voted to legalise euthanasia but could reject recreational cannabis use following two referendums that were part of this month’s general election, the country’s Electoral Commission said on Friday.
New Zealanders were asked whether they agreed with the End of Life Choice Bill, which allows assisted dying for people with terminal illnesses subject to a range of conditions and safeguards.
Issuing preliminary results, the commission said more than 65.2 percent of voters were in favour of the legislation permitting euthanasia.
Nearly half a million votes have yet to be counted and the final results will be released on 6 November.
The “yes” vote means New Zealand joins a small group of nations and territories including the Netherlands and Canada that have legalised euthanasia. The government has to ensure the legislation is implemented by October 2021.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was re-elected in a landslide, backed the bill and also the legalisation of cannabis for recreational use.
The Electoral Commission said 53.1 percent of voters opposed that plan, which would have made the country only the third Canada and Uruguay to legalise the drug’s use for adults.
Do you want to know more about this topic? Sign up for one of News24's 33 newsletters to receive the information you want in your inbox. Special newsletters are available to subscribers.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For only R75 per month, you have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today.

 
English (United States)