Ludwig Minelli, the founder of the prominent Swiss assisted suicide organization Dignitas, has ended his own life through voluntary assisted dying. His death occurred on Saturday, just days before what would have been his 93rd birthday this past Friday.
A Pioneer's Final Choice
The non-profit group confirmed Minelli's passing, describing him as a "pioneer and warrior" for the right-to-die movement. Specific details regarding the location of his death were not immediately released. Minelli's career path was notable; he first worked as a journalist before transitioning to become a human rights lawyer.
His most significant legacy began in 1998 when he established Dignitas. The organization's mission was to provide individuals with the means to end their lives on their own terms, a concept he championed for decades. In a tribute, Dignitas stated that Minelli "stood unwaveringly for his convictions when it came to the protection of fundamental rights and the freedom of citizens."
Building a Controversial Legacy
Minelli's involvement in the assisted dying movement started years before founding Dignitas. In 1992, he joined the Zurich branch of another organization, Exit, serving as a legal advisor. His work with Dignitas began modestly but grew significantly over time.
In its first year of operation, Dignitas facilitated the suicides of six Swiss nationals. Since then, the organization reports it has assisted approximately 4,000 people from Switzerland and around the world in ending their lives. Dignitas maintains it follows strict guidelines when evaluating candidates for its services.
The group emphasized that Minelli remained dedicated to his cause until the very end. "Right up to the end of his life, he continued to search for further ways to help people to exercise their right to freedom of choice and self-determination," the tribute noted.
The Work Continues
In the wake of its founder's death, Dignitas has vowed to continue its mission. The organization pledged to carry on Minelli's work in his spirit, characterizing itself as a "professional and combative international organization for self-determination and freedom of choice in life and at the end of life."
Minelli's passing comes at a time when the global conversation around medical assistance in dying (MAID) continues to evolve, including ongoing debates in Canada about the scope and application of its laws.
