The closer the referendum date approaches, the more I find myself thinking about euthanasia or assisted dying, and the more I realize I know too little to make an informed decision. Years ago, I would have supported euthanasia without hesitation, as I've always advocated for people's freedom of choice. But. Yes, there's always a "but." I've had a personal experience that changed my perspective.

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I believe in an individual's right to self-determination, in dignity, and in the human right to alleviate suffering. But life has taught me that ethical dilemmas can be much more complex than they initially seem.

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A recent personal experience has raised new questions and dilemmas that I hadn't deeply considered before. I've come to realize how subtle and sensitive situations related to life and death can be. And although I still believe in the importance of self-determination, I've realized that the path to an ethically acceptable solution can be much more complicated.

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A very dear person to me fell ill overnight two years ago, lost a third of their weight within a month and a half, and was essentially sent home from the hospital just to die. And that's what they wanted, many times. They begged to die. They couldn't walk anymore, couldn't even eat solid food, they could only sip liquids, couldn't even hold a spoon, everyone had already given up on them. But neither I nor other family members did. After more than half a year of agony and incredibly slow and demanding recovery, they slowly started to live again. Today, they're as they were before, lively, and full of life, completely healthy and even without medication, just their legs no longer support them.

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I believe in an individual's right to self-determination, in dignity, and in the human right to alleviate suffering. But life has taught me that ethical dilemmas can be much more complex than they initially seem.

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The referendum on voluntary assisted dying is an opportunity for us as a society to decide on the fundamental values we want to uphold. However, it's crucial that this decision is made with appropriate information and discussion based on respect, empathy, and professionalism. Everyone must confront their own moral dilemmas and decide what they feel is the most ethical and humane.

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At the same time, Slovenia will need to do much more in the field of palliative care. Investing in quality and modern palliative care would offer an alternative that would allow for a dignified life until a natural end, while also reducing the need to seek other options to end suffering.

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Now, a word about the upcoming referendum campaign. We must not neglect the importance of appropriate ethical and professional communication. I'm concerned that the debate may veer into unwanted territory - difficult demagogy, political manipulation, and ideological divisions. This must not be allowed.

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We deserve open, respectful, and reasoned discussions that will enable people to make informed decisions on such an important issue. The key to this will be the appropriate approach to public discourse. Communication in the referendum campaign must be directed towards awareness, education, and promoting critical thinking. Let facts speak, not emotions.

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I want to hear the voices of various experts and the experiences and opinions of all relevant stakeholders. Only then can we achieve a responsible and thoughtful decision that reflects broad consensus and adheres to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

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As an example of good practice abroad, I can mention the Netherlands, where voluntary assisted dying has been legalized since 2002. Their approach is based on strict legislative frameworks accompanied by continuous education of healthcare professionals, professional support for patients and their families, and oversight of procedures. This model has attracted widespread international interest and can serve as an example of how to shape policies regarding voluntary assisted dying. Of course, Slovenian specifics must be considered. However, it must also be noted that the Netherlands has one of the most regulated and modern healthcare systems in the world. We are not there yet, and we won't be for quite some time. And this fact also needs to be considered when we make our decision in June.

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Regardless of the outcome of the referendum, it's important for society to acknowledge its responsibility towards the dignified and respectful treatment of every individual, especially in their final moments. The condition for this is also well-regulated long-term care and modern, universally accessible palliative care.

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I can only hope that the title of this blog won't be perceived merely as a rhetorical question. I haven't made the decision myself yet.