Euthanasia and vaccination / Aida Khairani Zaidi … [et al.]

Euthanasia and vaccination stand as pivotal topics within contemporary ethical and medical debates, resonating deeply in discussions guided by Fiqh Mua'sarah, the modem application of Islamic jurisprudence. Euthanasia, a subject eliciting intense emotional responses, often divides proponents and opponents into conflicting groups rather than fostering rational discourse. This issue intertwines elements of humanity, autonomy, dignity, and compassion, sparking fierce debates within societies. While the inevitability of death remains an inescapable reality, contemplating end-of-life decisions remains a daunting prospect for many individuals across different societal strata, transcending age, wealth, religious beliefs, or social status.

In these discussions framed within Fiqh Mua'sarah, euthanasia is viewed by some as an assertion of personal autonomy, representing an individual's choice to control their destiny or a compassionate response to extreme suffering. Conversely, others regard euthanasia as tantamount to killing, contradicting the sanctity of life principle and denying the fundamental right to life. This sharp contrast in perspectives has been a focal point in medical ethics debates, prominently in the late 20th century and continuing to challenge aging societies in the 21st century. However, in regions like Malaysia, where religious practices from Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity hold strong influence, the conversation around Euthanasia remains largely absent, potentially due to societal rejection of end-of-life practices.