Uruguay Makes History as First Latin American Nation to Fully Legalize Euthanasia Through Legislative Action

Recent polling indicates that over 60 percent of Uruguayans favor the legalization of euthanasia, with only 24 percent opposed to the practice. (Representational)

Montevideo:

Uruguay made history on Wednesday by becoming one of the first Latin American nations and among approximately twelve countries worldwide to legalize euthanasia. The Senate approved the "Dignified Death" bill after ten hours of intense debate, with 20 legislators voting in favor out of 31 present, following the lower Chamber of Representatives' approval in August.

This progressive move aligns with Uruguay's reputation for pioneering socially liberal legislation in the region, having previously legalized marijuana, same-sex marriage, and abortion well ahead of neighboring countries.

During the Senate deliberations, lawmakers described the euthanasia decision as "the most difficult" they had faced. The discussion remained largely respectful though emotionally charged, with some observers vocally protesting by shouting "murderers" after the bill passed.

The newly approved legislation permits assisted suicide for mentally competent adult Uruguayan citizens or residents who are suffering from terminal, incurable diseases. This positions Uruguay at the forefront of end-of-life rights in Latin America, where only Colombia and Ecuador have decriminalized euthanasia through court rulings rather than legislative action, and Cuba allows terminal patients to refuse artificial life support.

The initiative, championed by the ruling leftist Frente Amplio party, succeeded after years of advocacy against strong opposition primarily from religious conservative groups.

Beatriz Gelos, a 71-year-old Uruguayan who has battled neurodegenerative ALS for two decades, expressed support for the law, describing it as "compassionate, very humane." Speaking from her wheelchair with difficulty, she remarked that opponents "have no idea what it's like to live like this."

Another supporter, Monica Canepa, whose 39-year-old son Pablo suffers from paralysis due to an incurable condition, told AFP: "Pablo is not living. This is not life."

Uruguay's Medical Association has adopted a neutral position on the issue, allowing individual doctors to act according to their personal conscience. Meanwhile, the Catholic Church has expressed "sadness" regarding the legislative decision.