Christian, Muslim, Jewish representatives condemn euthanasia, call for changes to new criminal code

Representatives of the Czech Christian, Muslim and Jewish faiths have issued a joint statement condemning euthanasia and calling for changes to a new criminal code recently approved by the lower house. The new law does not set a minimum sentence for assisting in so-called mercy killings, which critics say opens the way to euthanasia.

The religious leaders - issuing a joint statement for the first time - said the practice went against the Hippocratic Oath, and called for greater funding for hospices and carers.