Holocaust Survivor Ruth Posner Dies Amid Consent Questions

Ruth and Michael Posner, aged 96 and 97 and married for nearly 75 years, died together at a Swiss assisted‑dying clinic after sending a final email to friends and family saying failing sight, hearing and energy had left them “existing” rather than living. Reports conflict over whether the facility was Dignitas or the Pegasos clinic near Basel. Neither was reported to have a terminal illness. Some acquaintances, including playwright Julia Pascal, have since alleged Michael was emotionally controlling and questioned whether Ruth’s consent to the joint decision was fully voluntary, while Jewish and Holocaust‑education organizations issued tributes praising Ruth’s life and advocacy. Ruth was a Polish‑born Holocaust survivor who escaped the Radom Ghetto, emigrated to the UK at 16, and had a distinguished career in dance and acting. Public debate continues over consent and agency in the couple’s joint assisted death.