The paper investigates the differing approaches to Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) in Australia and Indonesia, with a focus on legal structures and motivations underlying each nation's stance. While Australia has embraced VAD, enacting laws in six states, Indonesia faces ongoing challenges rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, resulting in the prohibition of VAD. The paper scrutinizes Australia's rationale for human rights, emphasizing adherence to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and explores the legal framework through key cases and legislative processes. On the other side, Indonesia's legal landscape, shaped by Pancasila principles and religious beliefs, prohibits VAD under Article 344 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. The paper contemplates the potential for future VAD legalization in Indonesia, suggesting avenues such as consultations with religious leaders, judicial review, and legal amendments, while emphasizing the importance of honoring international human rights commitments. The conclusion underscores the unique cultural and legal challenges Indonesia faces in pursuing VAD legalization, different from Australia's approach.

Authors:
Christopher Martin, University of New South Wales, Australia

About the Presenter(s)
Mr Christopher Martin is a University Postgraduate Student at University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney in Australia

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