On October 10, 2023, The Catholic University of America’s Center for Human Rights hosted the Sixth Annual Human Rights Lecture, featuring renowned bioethicist Dr. John Keown of Georgetown University’s Kennedy Institute of Ethics. A distinguished scholar in medical law and ethics, Dr. Keown addressed the complex question: Is there a human right to assisted suicide?

Drawing on philosophical, legal, and theological perspectives, Dr. Keown critically examined the claim that assisted suicide constitutes a fundamental human right. He highlighted the dangers of framing assisted suicide in such terms, arguing that it undermines the universal right to life and risks coercing vulnerable individuals—particularly the elderly, disabled, and terminally ill—into ending their lives under societal pressure.

Through careful analysis of international human rights documents and precedents, Dr. Keown made the case that assisted suicide lacks grounding in established legal norms. He emphasized that true compassion means offering care and accompaniment at the end of life, not facilitating death. The lecture challenged common narratives and called for a renewed commitment to authentic human dignity.

The event drew students, faculty, legal scholars, and advocates committed to defending life and human rights at every stage. In keeping with the Center’s mission, the lecture served as a forum for thoughtful dialogue on one of today’s most urgent ethical debates. Watch the lecture here.