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The Documentary: Suicide's Silent Survivors

11/07/2024 GMT

Suicide's Silent Survivors

BBC World Service - The Documentary, Suicide's Silent Survivors

A look at the countries where it’s still a criminal offence to attempt suicide

Why do many countries still put people in jail for attempted suicide? Here Ashley Byrne finds deep rooted religious and cultural beliefs and traditions are often behind the laws.

Journalist and Broadcaster Ashley Byrne looks at the countries around the world where it's still a criminal offence to try and take your own life.
He investigates why so many places still put people who've attempted suicide in prison - and discovers how deep-rooted religious beliefs and cultural attitudes are often behind the criminalisation laws.
Among other places, Ashley hears from Malawi where people face jail sentences of up to 2 years and Nigeria and Kenya where even children face a criminal record.
Stigma and prejudice is rife in many countries where even speaking about suicide can result in a backlash.
Ashley (whose partner tried to take his own life twice) also speaks to mental health specialists in countries which have recently changed the law like Singapore and Pakistan. He hears how despite decriminalisation stigma around suicide prevails.
Among those giving their personal story is 5 times attempted suicide survivor Nthati Phskoe who has faced stigma and prejudice where she lives in Lesotho. 

Produced by Ashley Byrne
A Made in Manchester Production for the BBC World Service

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