Ko Wen-je Raises Euthanasia Issue; Ministry of Health and Welfare Shifts Focus to Strengthening Palliative Care and Long-term Care

Former Taiwan People's Party Chairman Ko Wen-je recently shared the story of a Taiwanese patient who traveled to Switzerland for euthanasia, sparking widespread public debate. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) stated on the 22nd that the government is not currently considering the legalization of euthanasia, but will instead review its long-term care and palliative policies to ensure comfort and dignity for patients.

Ko shared a video detailing the lives of siblings suffering from a hereditary neurological disease, noting that the younger brother, in his 40s, sought euthanasia in Switzerland this May. Ko argued that this case reflects broader systemic challenges regarding whether current long-term care systems adequately support patients with severe illnesses.

Liu Yueh-ping, Director of the Department of Medical Affairs at the MOHW, clarified the government’s stance in a media interview. She noted that the core essence of euthanasia and palliative care differs significantly: "Euthanasia seeks to solve the patient's problem by ending their life, whereas palliative care aims to solve the patient's pain while they are alive."

Liu emphasized that the focus should be on how to better integrate palliative care, patient autonomy, and long-term care services—covering daily care, symptom management, and caregiver support—rather than legalization of euthanasia. She also highlighted the importance of the Patient Right to Autonomy Act, encouraging individuals to make "Advance Directives" while sound of mind, which can achieve dignified end-of-life care and avoid the moral dilemmas often associated with terminal illness.