Warning: This article contains references to suicide
Imagine a future where the end of one’s life could be as serene as choosing the time and place, without the need for medical intervention. This could soon be a reality thanks to a new ‘suicide pod’ developed by a pro-euthanasia group, aimed at minimizing reliance on doctors and suicide assistance organizations.
The brainchild behind this innovation, Philip Nitschke, known colloquially as ‘Dr Death’, has spearheaded these efforts through his company, Exit International. Nitschke is no stranger to controversy, with his persistent advocacy for the right to a dignified death.
“At Exit, we believe that it is the fundamental human right of every adult of sound mind, to be able to plan for the end of their life in a way that is reliable, peaceful & at a time of their choosing,” Nitschke has stated, underlining the philosophy driving his mission.
The device in question, a 3D-printed capsule named Sarco, has been heralded as the ‘Tesla of euthanasia’ for its innovative approach to assisted dying. It offers an alternative to the current methods available, which are often mired in legal and ethical complexities.
With a teaser of ‘coming soon’ posted beneath an image of the pod on the company’s website, anticipation builds as the rollout in Switzerland is expected imminently. Reports from Swiss newspaper NZZ suggest that preparations by Exit Switzerland are nearly complete, with a launch anticipated in July.
Last June, Nitschke excited the online community by announcing that a user was slated to employ the pod in Switzerland “in the next few weeks”. This user is reportedly already in Switzerland, ready for their planned departure.
Despite these claims, Fiona Stewart, Nitschke’s partner, remained tight-lipped when queried by NZZ about the veracity of these reports.
Nevertheless, the introduction of such a device on Swiss soil has not been without its critics. Local newspaper Blick has pointed out that the operators of the pod could face criminal consequences.
Concerns about the method of termination and control during the process were voiced in a letter from Public Prosecutor Peter Stiche, as reported by the publications. Stiche highlighted the ambiguity surrounding who maintains control over the mechanical processes during the dying procedure.
Swiss law, particularly Article 115 of the penal code, explicitly penalizes assistance in suicide for selfish motives, including any potential financial gain, which could land operators up to five years in prison. This is a significant concern, as euthanasia organizations are required to operate strictly as non-profit entities.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
You can also call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 at the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline.