In a historic vote on Tuesday 11th June, Monaco’s National Council adopted Law No. 1081, creating — for the first time — a dedicated legal framework for palliative care and end-of-life support in the Principality.
Until now, Monaco had no formal legislation addressing the medical, ethical, or legal aspects of end-of-life care. Access to palliative treatment existed in practice, but patients had no guaranteed right to it, and end-of-life decisions were often made without clear guidelines. Law No. 1081 now changes that.
The legislation guarantees the right for every patient to receive palliative care — focused on comfort and pain relief rather than cure — and allows individuals to draft legally recognised declarations about how they wish to be treated at the end of life. These written statements will help doctors and families make care decisions that reflect the patient’s own values and preferences.
Importantly, the law does not permit any form of euthanasia or assisted dying. Instead, it reinforces the principle of life’s natural end, with compassion and dignity at its heart.
Strengthening the doctor–patient relationship
Law No. 1081 also introduces protections and responsibilities for healthcare professionals, offering a structured legal basis for end-of-life care decisions. It aims to build trust between patients and medical teams by making expectations and roles clear.
In addition, for the first time in Monaco’s history, the law formally acknowledges the role of volunteers and charitable associations in supporting terminally ill individuals, recognising the invaluable emotional and practical support they offer.
“A pact of humanity”
Speaking during the National Council session, Monaco’s Minister of Social Affairs and Health, Christophe Robino, called the new law “a true pact of humanity”. He said: “It is our responsibility—as institutions and as individuals—to ensure that every person is supported, relieved, and respected until their final breath.”
The Princely Government described the law as a balanced, modern response to a complex issue—rooted in ethical values while adapted to the needs of today’s society.
A milestone for Monaco
With this legislation, Monaco joins a growing number of countries that have chosen to legislate end-of-life care without crossing into euthanasia. The law provides legal clarity and compassionate safeguards at a time when many families and healthcare providers are seeking guidance through some of life’s most difficult decisions.
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Photo credit: Manny Becerra, Unsplash