Yamandú Orsi won Uruguay’s presidential election on November 24, 2024, marking a shift towards progressive governance. His focus on social spending and environmental sustainability aims to address major issues like child poverty while emphasizing cooperation with rural communities. The Progressive International supports these changes amid broader international challenges, including U.S.-Cuba tensions and the ongoing struggle for Sahrawi independence.
In a time marked by global uncertainties, Uruguay’s recent presidential election stands out as a beacon of hope. On November 24, 2024, Yamandú Orsi of the progressive Broad Front coalition achieved a historic victory in a runoff, obtaining 50% of the votes against Álvaro Delgado’s 46%. This pivotal moment signifies not just a change in leadership but a transformative vision for the nation’s future.
As a representative of the Popular Participation Movement (MPP), Orsi carries the legacy of former president José Mujica and emphasizes inclusivity. His campaign addressed pressing issues such as economic inequality and environmental concerns, resonating with voters struggling to cope with these challenges. Notably, Orsi, from the rural Canelones department, marks a shift as the first president from the Broad Front with deep rural connections, supported by vice president-elect Carolina Cosse from Montevideo.
Orsi’s inauguration on March 1, 2025, will herald a new era after five years of center-right governance under Luis Lacalle Pou. His presidency is set to tackle Uruguay’s high child poverty rates, with proposed increases in social spending, youth job creation, and educational support for low-income communities. Additional reforms may include altering the retirement age and reducing the standard workweek to 40 hours to meet union demands.
Environmental sustainability is a key focus for Orsi, with Uruguay already a leader in renewable energy, sourcing over 98% of its electricity sustainably. His administration aims to foster further investments in green technologies and explore international partnerships for green hydrogen production. In foreign policy, Orsi seeks to enhance regional cooperation and cautiously approach free trade agreements.
The Progressive International expresses solidarity with Uruguayans as they embark on this new journey. Elsewhere, the U.S. recently expanded visa restrictions aimed at Cuban healthcare workers contributing internationally—a continuation of aggressive measures against Cuba’s global medical outreach. As Cuba traditionally aids nations through health brigades, this policy shift is receiving international scrutiny.
Additionally, the Sahrawi people’s progress toward independence is marked by the anniversary of their republic, despite ongoing occupation challenges from Morocco. A pro-Trump organization has criticized South African legislative efforts aimed at racial equity, urging continued U.S. pressure against them amid cuts to HIV funding in South Africa.
A virtual conference co-organized by the Progressive International addressed the impacts of U.S. sanctions on Cuba, inviting discourse on the implications and legality of these measures. In the UK Parliament, members affirmed their support for upholding international law regarding Palestine, displayed by testimonies encouraging cooperation within humanitarian frameworks.
Amid rising far-right sentiments globally, the Reactionary International has formed a network with significant influence, prompting investigations into its operations and successes. The Guardian recently exposed the advertisement of numerous lodgings in illegal Israeli settlements, as conflicts over land rights continue to spark international legal debates, including a UN advisory opinion against Israel.
The Progressive International’s initiative, the Watermelon Index, aims to campaign against companies profiting from the occupation, currently targeting Booking.com. Their efforts include calls for worker-led movements against such companies’ complicity in the situation. In the arts, Uruguayan artist Gladys Afamado’s works reflect the nation’s socio-political struggles, echoing historical movements that demanded transparency and justice during times of repression.
Yamandú Orsi’s election heralds a new beginning for Uruguay with progressive policies aimed at combating inequality and promoting sustainability. The engagement of the Progressive International signals global support for Uruguay’s path forward. In contrast, international tensions are evident through U.S. policies towards Cuba and ongoing advocacy struggles within the Sahrawi territories and South Africa. This comprehensive context reveals the interconnected nature of global politics and social justice movements.
Original Source: progressive.international
