Uruguay Roundup: Euthanasia legalisation nears, inflation eases, organised crime crackdown

Uruguay moves closer to legalising euthanasia 

Uruguay has moved closer to passing a bill legalising euthanasia, scheduling the final vote on August 12 and potentially becoming the third Latin American country to institutionalise the controversial policy. The legislation, debated for eight years, would set strict medical and legal criteria for adults with terminal or incurable illnesses seeking the procedure. Patients would require medical and psychological assessments, plus two independent medical opinions. If passed, Uruguay would join Colombia and Ecuador in permitting euthanasia, a move that has garnered criticism, especially from pro-life advocates and religious figures. 

Inflation falls to one-year low in July

Uruguay’s inflation slowed to 4.5% in July, down from 4.6% in June and the lowest since May 2024. It marked the fourth straight monthly decline, keeping inflation within the Central Bank’s 3.0-6.0% target range. The drop was driven by weaker price growth in housing, utilities, and transport, though food costs accelerated. Annual average inflation slid to 5.1% from 5.2% in June. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose 0.05%, reversing the 0.09% decline recorded in June.

Uruguay, DR Congo ink cultural cooperation pact

Uruguay and the Democratic Republic of the Congo signed a cultural cooperation agreement on  August 8, focusing on promoting Afro-descendant heritage, including rumba and candombe. The deal was concluded during a visit by Congolese Culture Minister Yolande Elebe, who also met President Yamandú Orsi and held talks on copyright, intellectual property, and joint cultural projects. The partnership marks the DRC’s return to South America after 40 years and forms part of a broader government mission to strengthen South-South cooperation. 

Gov’t unveils five-year strategy vs money laundering, organised crime

President Yamandú Orsi’s government has unveiled a national strategy to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and arms proliferation, cracking down on drug trafficking and organised crime. The 2025-2030 plan follows a risk assessment identifying drug trade, corruption, and football transfer rights as high-risk areas. The move comes after a record 2.2-tonne cocaine seizure this month. The strategy will work alongside the SILCON system, coordinating intelligence and strengthening financial investigations to dismantle criminal networks.

Uruguay to hold first solar power auction since 2013

Uruguay will launch a 200 MW solar power auction in 2025, its first in over a decade, as part of efforts to boost renewable energy and cut reliance on fossil fuels. The initiative forms part of the country’s strategy to increase the share of renewables in its electricity mix and strengthen energy security. Officials say the project will help diversify energy sources and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.