A child under the age of 12 has reportedly become the first person in that age group to undergo euthanasia in the Netherlands since the country expanded its laws to permit the practice for younger children.

The case was disclosed by Dutch Health Minister Sophie Hermans in a letter to parliament on June 22, which included an annual report from the committee responsible for reviewing late-term abortions and medically assisted deaths involving children.

According to the report, the child died through euthanasia in late 2025 after suffering from a severe medical condition. Authorities did not release any identifying details or information about the illness.

As required under Dutch law, the case has been referred to public prosecutors to assess whether medical professionals followed all legal procedures. The review committee has also interviewed the doctor involved and will submit its findings to the relevant authorities.

The euthanasia marks the first known case involving a child under 12 since new regulations were introduced in 2024. The updated rules allow doctors, in agreement with parents, to end the life of a terminally ill child who is experiencing unbearable suffering with no chance of recovery.

The Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize voluntary euthanasia in 2002. Under existing laws, children aged 12 and older can request euthanasia if they are deemed capable of understanding the decision. Those aged 12 to 15 require parental consent, while parents of 16- and 17-year-olds must be consulted but do not have the power to veto the request.

Dutch authorities emphasize that decisions involving children under 12 are made in close consultation with parents and, whenever possible, with the child.