Dignitas founder dies by assisted suicide aged 92, group says

BBC News - WorldEN 2 min read 100% complete November 30, 2025 at 10:18 PM

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Ludwig Minelli, the 92-year-old founder of Dignitas, a Swiss right-to-die organization, died by assisted suicide on Saturday, days before his 93rd birthday. Minelli founded Dignitas in 1998 after leaving Exit, advocating for individual choice and human rights regarding end-of-life decisions. Dignitas has assisted thousands of people, including non-Swiss citizens, seeking assisted dying, which is legal in Switzerland under specific conditions since 1942. Minelli faced criticism for his organization's practices, including financial transparency and assisting non-terminally ill individuals. Dignitas highlighted Minelli's lasting impact, referencing a European Court of Human Rights ruling affirming an individual's right to decide on the manner and timing of their death.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Switzerland ×450% Dignitas ×680% Ludwig Minelli ×9100%

Keywords

assisted suicide 100% right to die 90% dignitas 90% ludwig minelli 80% euthanasia 60% human rights 50% switzerland 50% self-determination 50% legalisation 40%