(UTV | SWITZERLAND) – Suicide machine death without pain in 1 minute in Switzerland, legal approval for death machine
A capsule machine designed to make assisted dying more comfortable for those eligible could be available for use from as early as next year. A capsule that allows people to end their life could be used in Switzerland from next year, its creators say. The Sarco device allows a user to lie down and activate the process themselves within a matter of minutes. Australian Dr Philip Nitschke, whose Exit International organization came up with the capsule, said, “Barring any unforeseen difficulties, we hope to be ready to make Sarco available for use in Switzerland next year.” While the capsule has passed legal review in Switzerland, the nation’s government is yet to make clear whether it intends to allow use of the capsule.
Around 1300 people ended their life using assisted dying in Switzerland last year. Individuals who elect to use the capsule are asked a series of questions before they can press a button, which brings oxygen down to a critical level. Nitrogen fills the 3D-printed device, quickly bringing oxygen down in about 30 seconds. A “disorientated” and “euphoric” feeling then follows, before they eventually lose consciousness. Australian Dr Philip Nitschke, whose Exit International organization came up with the capsule, told local media there is “no panic, no choking feeling”.
“The machine can be towed anywhere for the death,” he said. “It can be in an idyllic outdoor setting or in the premises of an assisted suicide organization, for example. The person will get into the capsule and lie down. It’s very comfortable.” In Australia, terminally ill people in all states bar NSW have the freedom to end their own lives, however the final vote on the issue is expected to be finalized by both houses in early 2022. These freedoms have yet to be extended to Australians living in the Northern Territory and the ACT, with Attorney-General Michaelia Cash barring a bid from territory governments to make their own laws regarding assisted dying in October this year.