The Netherlands has confirmed its first case of euthanasia performed on a child aged between 1 and 12 years old since the law allowing this practice came into effect in February 2024. This legislation permits ending the life of minors in this age group who suffer unbearably from incurable diseases without hope of improvement.

Dutch Health Minister Sophie Hermans informed Parliament that the commission responsible for reviewing late-term pregnancy terminations and life-ending cases in newborns and children received the notification late last year and has just completed its examination. The commission reviewed the medical records, interviewed the attending physician, and forwarded its findings to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which will decide if the doctor acted within the legal framework. The minister did not disclose the child’s exact age or illness.

This legal expansion marked a significant shift from previous regulations, which only allowed euthanasia for newborns and minors over 12 years old. When the law was approved, experts estimated that about five children annually might qualify for this procedure, often involving congenital anomalies or metabolic diseases.

The introduction of euthanasia for young children sparked intense ethical and political debates in the Netherlands. Conservative and religious parties have challenged the regulation, while medical associations emphasize the importance of a legal framework to address exceptional cases of extreme suffering.

In a related update, the commission also reported receiving three notifications in 2025 concerning late-term pregnancy terminations. These involved fetuses with severe brain damage caused by congenital cytomegalovirus infections. In all cases, doctors confirmed no treatments could improve the prognosis, and if born, the children would face severe neurological disabilities, difficult-to-treat epilepsy, and total dependency on care. The commission concluded that the medical professionals acted in accordance with legal diligence requirements.

This case highlights the ongoing complexities and sensitivities surrounding end-of-life decisions for minors, reflecting the Netherlands’ commitment to balancing compassionate care with rigorous legal oversight.