Can I get assisted dying in Sweden?
No — active euthanasia is banned in Sweden. If someone else performs the lethal act it counts as murder or manslaughter under the Penal Code, and the patient's consent is no defence. There is no lawful assisted-dying service. But as a competent patient you have the right to decline or withdraw treatment under the Patient Act, including life-sustaining treatment, and palliative care and pain relief (including palliative sedation) are allowed, even if they may shorten life. A living will can inform care but is not legally binding.
📋 The rules
- Active euthanasia is banned
- If performed by another it counts as murder or manslaughter
- The patient's consent is no defence
- You may decline or withdraw treatment (Patient Act)
- A living will is not legally binding
🔓 Exceptions
- Declining life-sustaining treatment is allowed
- Pain relief that may shorten life is allowed (double effect)
- Palliative sedation is accepted at the end of life
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Active euthanasia is judged as murder (10–18 years or life) or manslaughter (6–10 years), plus loss of licence for healthcare staff via the inspectorate.
📎 Official sources
- Patient Act (2014:821) · Riksdagen →
- Penal Code (1962:700) ch. 3 · Riksdagen →
- National Council on Medical Ethics (Smer) →
❓ Frequently asked
Is assisted dying allowed in Sweden?
No. Active euthanasia is banned and counts as murder or manslaughter, even with the patient's consent.
Can I say no to treatment?
Yes. A competent patient may decline or withdraw treatment, including life-sustaining, under the Patient Act.
What is palliative sedation?
Sedation at the end of life. It is accepted, even though pain relief can in some cases shorten life.
Is a living will binding?
No. It can inform care of your wishes but is not legally binding.
What is the penalty for euthanasia?
Active euthanasia is judged as murder or manslaughter with long prison terms, plus a revoked licence for healthcare staff.
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