Italian writer Daniele Pieroni, who suffered from a severe form of Parkinson’s disease, became the first to undergo a medically assisted suicide procedure under new rules adopted in Tuscany. As reported The Luca Cocioni Association, which actively promotes the idea of legalizing euthanasia in Italy, the procedure was carried out in accordance with the norms approved in February 2025.
Pieroni had been living with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease since 2008. Due to the gradual deterioration of his health, he had to be fed through a feeding tube, which worked 21 hours a day. Surrounded by family and medical professionals, he self-administered the drug that led to his death.
The regulatory act adopted in Tuscany became the country’s first regional law that officially recognized and regulated the human right to voluntary termination of life, and also simplified administrative procedures for its implementation. At the same time, the Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, opposes the practice of euthanasia and challenges the legality of this regional decision in the courts.
The Luca Cocioni Association called on other regions of the country to follow the example of Tuscany. The organization’s statement emphasizes:
“Too many people continue to suffer or have to go abroad to be able to die with dignity. We call on all regions to ensure freedom of choice and respect for the will of every person.”
The issue of euthanasia remains one of the most controversial and sensitive topics in Catholic Italy. The precedent in Tuscany may be the impetus for a wider public debate about the ethical and medical aspects of this issue at the national level.
