Quebec stands out for a unique and deeply human choice: it leads the world [1] in medical assistance in dying (MAID). Since adopting the End‑of‑Life Care Act [2] in 2015, the province has become a global reference point, with 7.3% of all deaths between April 2023 and March 2024 occurring through MAID—a proportion unmatched anywhere else in Canada or internationally. During this period, 5,717 people made this choice to conclude their lives with dignity[3]. By comparison, rates in European countries like Belgium and the Netherlands remain between 4% and 6%, and the rest of Canada averaged 4.7% in 2023.
This leadership reflects more than legislative innovation. Quebec’s approach to MAID is shaped by carefully designed safeguards, informed consent, and the central role of medical professionals [4]. Access is reserved for those facing incurable illness and intolerable suffering, with decisions made thoughtfully and compassionately. Dr. Michel Bureau, president of the Commission on End‑of‑Life Care, expresses it clearly [5]: “To die well is to show the same dignity as when you chose to live fully.” This understanding aligns closely with the province’s deep respect for autonomy and meaningful choice throughout life.
In Quebec, the dignity offered at life’s end grows from the same joie de vivre that infuses daily moments—the warmth of being with those you love, enjoying life’s little pleasures like a good meal and telling the stories that make us laugh. MAID, when chosen, becomes another way to honor life’s story. It is a path that reflects the fullness of living, sustaining connection, presence, and gratitude right up to the very end. La joie de vivre is combined with freedom to choose and respect for life. Each person has a right to their way of life from the first breath to their last. We live life with joy and choose to live death the same way.
1. Vivre dans la dignité – “Quebec leads the world in MAID” (Oct. 26, 2024) – https://vivredignite.org/en/com-october-26-2024/
2. Government of Canada – Annual Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada 2023, Health Canada – https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/health-system-services/annual-report-medical-assistance-dying-2023.html
3. Alliance VITA – “Increasing euthanasia in Canada” (Dec. 2024) – https://www.alliancevita.org/en/2024/12/increasing-euthanasia-in-canada/
4. Vivre dans la dignité – “Memo to Quebec physicians about MAID” – https://vivredignite.org/en/pr-memo-to-qc-physicians-maid/
5. CBC News – “Quebec College of Physicians and MAID” – https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-college-physicians-maid-1.6947362