Hertfordshire's University students call for legal change to assisted dying laws
The first survey of its kind is revealing that most students support legalising assisted dying, with ethical and personal concerns influencing their views
A recent survey by the University of Hertfordshire has revealed that twice as many university students support the legalisation of assisted dying as those who oppose it. Of the 124 students surveyed, 57% believe assisted dying should be legalised, compared to 29% who disagree. The survey is the first of its kind to gather the views of young adults on this sensitive issue.
Dr Claudia Carr, a former practising lawyer who specialises in medical law and ethics, led the survey. She explained, “The potential legalisation of assisted dying is probably one of the most seismic societal changes in a generation. Given that these students are first-time voters, I wanted to explore their views on this important topic.”
Of the 124 students surveyed, 57% said assisted dying should be legalised, while only 29% opposed the change. The survey's findings coincide with a landmark 330-275 vote in Parliament, backed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, to move the Bill to the next stage. Dr Claudia Carr, a medical law and ethics expert who led the survey, said, “The potential legalisation of assisted dying is probably one of the most seismic societal changes in a generation. I wanted to explore the views of my students, who are first-time voters.”
During the parliamentary debate, MPs on both sides made passionate arguments, with supporters highlighting personal autonomy and the need for compassionate end-of-life choices.
The survey showed that ethical concerns, autonomy, and personal experiences with terminal illness played a key role in shaping the opinions of students who support assisted dying. One student shared a moving experience about caring for a terminally ill relative: “Without access to assisted dying, the right to live—and the rights that protect it—suddenly become the right to suffer.”
Another respondent argued for personal choice, stating, “People have autonomy and should be able to choose how they die. There should be limitations, but those of sound mind should make that decision for themselves.”
However, students who opposed the legalisation of assisted dying highlighted concerns about ethics, coercion, and religious beliefs. One student remarked, “It risks undermining the value of human life and could lead to coercion or abuse of vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or disabled.” Another warned of the dangers of removing hope, noting, “A new treatment might become available while someone is ill. Legalising assisted dying would take that chance away.”
Dr Carr emphasised that the insights provided by students were both intelligent and thought-provoking. “Gen Z are often seen as apathetic, but those who took part in this survey offered deep reflections on complex issues,” she said.
Currently, assisting or encouraging suicide in England and Wales carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison. The Bill will now proceed to committee stage, where MPs will scrutinise its provisions and propose amendments. Any final decision on changing the law will not be made until next year at the earliest.