Yamandú Orsi won Uruguay’s presidential election on November 24, 2024, marking a progressive shift away from centre-right governance. His campaign focuses on addressing child poverty, social spending, and environmental sustainability. In tandem, U.S. sanctions on Cuba continue to escalate, while global movements advocate for social justice in various contexts, highlighting the importance of solidarity across nations.
Uruguay recently celebrated a hopeful moment with the election of Yamandú Orsi, leader of the progressive Broad Front coalition, as President. Winning the runoff on November 24, 2024, with 50% of the vote, Orsi’s victory over Álvaro Delgado signifies not only a political transition but a fresh perspective on the nation’s future. Witnessed by the Progressive International Observatory, this election marks the Broad Front’s return to power after five years of centre-right governance.
As a member of the Popular Participation Movement within the Broad Front, Orsi is aligned with the political legacy of former president José ‘Pepe’ Mujica. His campaign, focused on inclusivity and addressing pressing issues like economic inequality and environmental sustainability, resonated across various demographics, particularly rural communities. Orsi will be joined by Carolina Cosse as vice president-elect, blending urban leadership with a commitment to the countryside.
Assuming office on March 1, 2025, Orsi aims to tackle child poverty, currently at 25%, by prioritizing social expenditure, job creation for youth, and educational opportunities for disadvantaged groups. Furthermore, he has expressed intentions to reform the social security system, potentially lowering the retirement age, and supports a standard 40-hour workweek, responding to demands from trade unions.
Environmental initiatives are also a focal point for Orsi’s administration. Uruguay leads in renewable energy, with over 98% of its grid powered sustainably. Orsi intends to enhance investments in green technologies, particularly green hydrogen production, while fostering regional cooperative agreements through Mercosur, approaching international trade with careful consideration.
Meanwhile, US policy toward Cuba escalates with expanded visa restrictions targeting Cuban healthcare workers abroad. As stated by Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, this decision represents yet another unjust measure against the country, which has historically provided international medical aid. The sanctions align with broader punitive actions from the Trump administration against nations pursuing social policies that focus on equity and solidarity.
On another front, the Sahrawi people commemorated the 49th anniversary of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic amid continued occupation of Western Sahara by Morocco, which is tacitly supported by the US and EU. Domestic and global solidarity movements emphasize the importance of freedom for the Sahrawi people.
The Progressive International facilitated a virtual conference on the multifaceted sanctions against Cuba, connecting experts and stakeholders to evaluate their impacts. In the UK, PI Co-General Coordinator Varsha Gandikota-Nellutla and former Ecuadorean foreign minister Guillaume Long engaged with Members of Parliament to advocate for international law and support for Palestine.
Globally, the emergence of a far-right network known as the Reactionary International poses significant challenges. This powerful coalition has successfully advanced a reactionary agenda that threatens many democratic principles around the world. Investigative journalist Matt Kennard explores this in the latest episode of The International.
New reports highlight illegal listings of accommodation in Israeli settlements on major platforms such as Booking.com, despite a July 2024 ruling from the UN International Court of Justice affirming the illegality of Israeli occupation in Palestinian territories. The Progressive International supports grassroots campaigns against these companies to advocate for justice and accountability.
Artificio de pájaros, a notable work by celebrated Uruguayan artist Gladys Afamado, epitomizes the artistic activism seen in Uruguay’s history. Her contributions to the Montevideo Engraving Club served as advocacy against oppression during tumultuous political climates, reflecting broader struggles for social justice that extend well beyond Uruguay’s borders.
The recent democratic milestone in Uruguay highlights the potential for progressive governance to address pressing social and environmental challenges. Yamandú Orsi’s election embodies a commitment to combating inequality and promoting sustainable development while fostering regional cooperation. In parallel, global issues such as U.S. sanctions against Cuba and the Sahrawi struggle for independence reflect the interconnectedness of social justice movements worldwide, emphasizing the necessity for solidarity and advocacy in navigating these complex landscapes.
Original Source: progressive.international
