Abstract:

Palliative care is a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on alleviating the symptoms, pain, and
stress of patients with serious illnesses. However, the debate surrounding euthanasia, or assisted
dying, has become increasingly contentious, particularly in the context of palliative care. This paper
critically examines the stance of Himpunan Putusan Tarjih (HPT) on euthanasia, a prominent Islamic
organization in Indonesia, and offers a critical perspective on the ethical dilemmas involved.

Introduction:

Palliative care is a vital component of healthcare, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients
with serious illnesses. The debate surrounding euthanasia, or assisted dying, has become a pressing
issue in the context of palliative care, as it raises questions about the sanctity of life, patient
autonomy, and the role of healthcare professionals in end-of-life care. In Indonesia, Himpunan
Putusan Tarjih (HPT) has taken a stance on euthanasia, which is critical to understanding the ethical
dilemmas involved.

HPT's Stance on Euthanasia:

HPT, a prominent Islamic organization in Indonesia, has explicitly condemned euthanasia, citing
religious and ethical grounds. According to HPT, euthanasia is a form of murder, as it involves
actively ending a patient's life, which is prohibited in Islam. HPT argues that euthanasia undermines
the sanctity of human life, which is a fundamental principle of Islamic ethics. Furthermore, HPT
emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy, but only within the boundaries of Islamic law and
ethics.

Ethical Dilemmas:

While HPT's stance on euthanasia is understandable from a religious perspective, it raises several
ethical dilemmas. Firstly, the prohibition on euthanasia may lead to a lack of access to palliative care
for patients who are suffering and wish to end their lives. This raises questions about patient
autonomy and the right to self-determination. Secondly, the condemnation of euthanasia may lead
to a lack of transparency and open discussion about end-of-life care options, which can exacerbate
suffering and distress for patients and their families. Finally, the emphasis on religious principles may
overlook the ethical considerations of healthcare professionals, who may have different moral and
ethical beliefs.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the debate surrounding euthanasia in the context of palliative care is complex and
multifaceted. While HPT's stance on euthanasia is rooted in religious and ethical principles, it raises
important ethical dilemmas that must be addressed. Healthcare professionals, policymakers, and
patients must engage in open and respectful discussions about end-of-life care options, including
euthanasia, to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Ultimately, a nuanced approach
that balances religious and ethical principles with patient autonomy and the right to self-
determination is necessary to address the ethical dilemmas involved in euthanasia.

References:

Himpunan Putusan Tarjih. (2020). Fatwa tentang Eutanasia. Retrieved from

https://www.hpt.or.id/fatwa-tentang-eutanasia/
World Health Organization. (2018). Palliative Care. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-
room/fact-sheets/detail/palliative-care

National Institute of Health. (2019). End-of-Life Care. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/health-

topics/end-life-care

American Medical Association. (2020). Euthanasia. Retrieved from <https://www.ama-assn.org/

ethics/euthanasia>