Switzerland introduces unique tourism concept: Rent a 3D-printed suicide pod for ₹1700

Switzerland is close to introducing a new assisted dying method with the Sarco, a portable suicide pod created through 3D printing. The introduction of this device is seen as a major advancement in the country’s end-of-life options by The Last Resort, an organisation that focuses on assisted dying.

How the Sarco Pod works

The Sarco pod, designed to facilitate a controlled and pain-free end of life, was originally unveiled in 2019 and has since generated much discussion. The device works by filling its chamber with nitrogen, which quickly lowers oxygen levels. A button inside the case initiates this process, leading to unconsciousness and death within about ten minutes, as reported by the Independent.

Assisted suicide in Switzerland

Switzerland has allowed assisted suicide since the 1940s, provided that the assistant is not motivated by self-interest. That policy has made Switzerland a prominent destination for those seeking assisted dying services, which critics sometimes call “death tourism,” according to Reuters.

First use information

Florian Willet, spokesperson for The Last Resort, announced at the press conference that the Sarco pod will soon be used for the first time in Switzerland. However, the organization has yet to reveal specifics about the timing, location or identity of the first user of the Sarco pod.

Fiona Stewart, legal counsel for The Last Resort’s advisory board, stressed the importance of privacy around the event. “We certainly don’t want the human desire for a peaceful passing in Switzerland to turn into a media circus,” Stewart said. He confirmed that the first use of the Sarco pod will take place this year, but reiterated that the information will be kept confidential after the event.

Costs and conflicts

Operating costs for the Sarco pod are minimal, with the only cost being 18 Swiss francs (about $20) for nitrogen. Despite its innovative design, the Sarco has been criticized and called for a ban. Opponents cite Section 115 of the Swiss Penal Code, which criminalizes assisted suicide if motivated by selfish reasons. This section states: “Whoever, for selfish reasons, causes another person to commit suicide or assists him in committing suicide, shall be sentenced to a prison for a maximum of five years, or to imprisonment if the suicide has either been committed or has been attempted.”

The Sarco pod was created by Philip Nitschke, the 76-year-old founder of Exit International, sometimes called “Dr. Death.” Nitschke has been criticized for allegedly trying to “glamorize” suicide with his inventions.