The founder of the Swiss right-to-die organization Dignitas has died by assisted suicide, as announced by the group. Ludwig Minelli, who passed away at the age of 92, had been a formidable advocate for the right to choose one’s end of life, living a life committed to freedom of choice and human rights.
Minelli established Dignitas in 1998, guiding thousands of individuals to facilitate assisted dying, a practice that remains controversial. His organization has notably supported those traveling from countries where assisted dying is prohibited to seek this service in Switzerland.
In his lifelong pursuit for personal choice, Minelli tackled numerous legal challenges, contributing significantly to the dialogue surrounding assisted dying laws that have evolved in various nations, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Currently, the assisted dying bill is a topic of discussion in the UK House of Lords.
Despite ongoing debates, his supporters laud Minelli’s work, positioning it as fundamental in securing human rights recognition across Europe, culminating in a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights affirming individual judgment over life-ending choices.
Minelli's legacy is encapsulated in Dignitas's motto, dignity in life, dignity in death, and the organization pledges to continue operating with the principles he instilled.
