Uruguay becomes first country to legalise euthanasia

Switzerland begins allowing assisted suicide

Britain passes the Suicide Act, punishing anyone who helps another person commit suicide with up to 14 years in prison

Eight states in the US pass ‘Right to Die’ bills

The World Federation of Right to Die Societies forms

Colombia legalises euthanasia, however a contradictory law punishes doctors with a six months to three years in prison for enabling ‘mercy killings’

The Netherlands legalises euthanasia and assisted suicide

Quebec adopts physician-assisted suicide

Colombia revisits law, introducing new protocol and safeguards for doctors

Germany legalises assisted suicide in extreme cases, though contradictory laws remain

Belgium becomes the only country to authorise euthanasia of minors

Victoria, Australia, is set to legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients