"The intentional termination of life by
another at the explicit request of the person who dies" (Netherlands State
Commission on Euthanasia).
Voluntary Euthanasia
Euthanasia; the word voluntary emphasizes the express intent of the person
wanting to die, and distinguishes it from mercy killing or any other form
of killing. In the Netherlands this phrase is not used - the word "euthanasia"
simply implying voluntary euthanasia, since if it is not voluntary it is
not regarded in the Netherlands as euthanasia. Non-Voluntary Euthanasia
Similar to "Mercy Killing" inasmuch it is performed on someone who is, at
the time of its performance, incompetent and therefore incapable of assenting
to it. Involuntary Euthanasia
Generally indicates that the act is performed against their will on a competent
patient who possesses the capacity to make a meaningful decision on the subject;
where the patient is not consulted or a wish not to have euthanasia is ignored,
whether or not it is on the assumption that it is in the person's best interests.
Active Euthanasia
Actively accelerating a good death, by use of drugs or other methods, whether
by oneself, or with the aid of a another. Indirect/Passive Euthanasia
Euthanasia without active intervention, relying on non-treatment. Omission
of life-sustaining treatment, whereby medications or procedures are withheld
or withdrawn from a patient with the aim of hastening a patient's death.