Helping people to die: Europe leads the way

In April 2002, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise active euthanasia. Photo: AFP

Switzerland is one of a growing number of countries that allow people to receive help to end their lives.

France recently looked set to join them, with the national ethics committee saying it is open to the terminally ill receiving "active" help in dying and President Emmanuel Macron launching public consultations on the issue.