In the Principality of Monaco, the commitment to human dignity and comprehensive care for every individual has once again come to the fore with the recent adoption of the palliative care law. This significant legislative step underscores Monaco’s vision to provide its citizens with the highest level of support and quality of life, especially during the most sensitive phases of illness.
What does the new law bring?
The adoption of the Palliative Care Law marks a turning point in Monaco’s healthcare system. Its key objectives are:
- Improving Quality of Life: The law focuses on alleviating the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual suffering of patients with severe, incurable illnesses.
- Right to Palliative Care: It ensures that every patient has the right to access palliative care, whether in hospital settings, specialized centers, or at home.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: It promotes teamwork among experts – doctors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and volunteers – to ensure comprehensive support for the patient and their family.
- Training and Education: It provides for the development of training programs for healthcare professionals to ensure high-quality palliative care.
- Respect for Patient’s Will: It includes provisions that strengthen patients’ right to informed decision-making about their treatment and advance care planning.

Why is this important for Monaco?
Monaco, though a small state, strives to be a global leader in many areas, including quality of life and social responsibility. The adoption of this law sends a strong message about the Principality’s commitment to humanitarian values. It demonstrates that Monaco focuses not only on economic prosperity but also on the well-being of its citizens, ensuring they receive dignified and supportive care in their most difficult moments.
This law is the result of careful consideration and alignment with best international practices, confirming Monaco’s dedication to continuously improving its healthcare system. It lays the groundwork for the future development of palliative care, ensuring that Monaco remains an example of a country that cares for its most vulnerable members of society.