Active euthanasia in Ecuador (2024–2025): Legal and social implications

Abstract

This article presents a qualitative study focused on active euthanasia in Ecuador during the period 2024-2025. The analysis centers on the legal and social implications of this phenomenon in the Ecuadorian context, examining the interaction between the current constitutional and legal framework and the practice of active euthanasia. The research identifies the main conflicts, dilemmas, and institutional discourses that emerge around its regulation and application. To this end, a hermeneutic and dogmatic methodology was applied, based on documentary and normative analysis, which included laws, judicial decisions, doctrinal sources, and pronouncements from competent entities. The findings reveal significant regulatory gaps, divergent interpretations in jurisprudence, and social tensions that pit the right to a dignified death against ethical and institutional resistance. Based on these results, the study proposes new perspectives for building a coherent legal framework that fosters an informed and respectful social dialogue on this complex and sensitive issue. Thus, the aim is to provide input that contributes to a balanced public debate and the development of legal policies that address the needs and concerns of Ecuadorian society.