Assisted Suicide Bill Fails in Scotland; Vote Hailed by Opponents as ‘Victory for the Vulnerable’

The bill would have made Scotland the first of the four UK nations to allow assisted suicide.

Opponents of assisted dying hold placards highlighting their concerns outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, in this file photo. Jane Barlow/PA

Scottish lawmakers voted against legalizing assisted dying on March 17, with opponents of the legislation hailing it as a “victory for the vulnerable,” while others lamented its failure as an affront to choice and dignity.

Scotland’s parliament at Holyrood in Edinburgh is responsible for devolved powers from the UK government in certain areas, including health policy.