Defining Physician-Assisted Suicide Tourism and Travel

Abstract

The concept of suicide tourism was first mentioned in the late 1900s; however, definitions remain ambiguous. Although “tourism” is often associated with joyful experiences, it takes involves forms and purposes that may not be leisure- or pleasure-related, in which suicide tourism is unique and scarcely examined. This study reviews relevant literature, reframes the definition of suicide tourism, and provides a better understanding of this emerging tourism phenomenon. The notion is redefined by tourism practices related to physician-assisted suicide (PAS). Subcategories include suicide tourism and suicide travel, depending on whether a person returns to his or her own country/region after a PAS-related trip. In addition, suicide tourism applies to anyone interested in exploring PAS, including via an informational journey. Finally, directions for future research are discussed.