A seriously ill child under the age of 12 has been euthanised in the Netherlands for the first time.
The child’s death was revealed in a letter to the Dutch parliament from Sophie Hermans, the health minister. The euthanasia was carried out at the end of last year.
Euthanasia for incurably sick children aged from one to 12 has been legal for two years. Before the change, it was an option only for newborns and those over 12.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/06/23/child-under-age-of-12-euthanised-in-netherlands/
Termination of life for terminally ill children aged 1 to 12
“Unbearable suffering without prospect of improvement
Termination of life is only allowed if a child is terminally ill and is suffering unbearably with no prospect of improvement. This means the child is in constant, severe pain. And that there is no cure, and no reasonable alternative to relieve the child’s suffering, even through palliative care.
In this situation, the doctor may decide, together with the parents, to terminate the child’s life. This decision is always made in consultation with the parents and, if possible, also with the child.”