Uruguay Revives Euthanasia Bill With Strong Multi-Party Support
Uruguayan lawmakers have reintroduced a bill to legalize euthanasia, according to a parliamentary announcement made on March 14, 2025.
The legislation, previously approved by the Lower House in 2022 but stalled in the Senate, has returned with robust cross-party backing. Deputies from the Colorado Party and the ruling Broad Front lead the initiative with additional support from the National Party and Independent Party members.
The bill would permit assisted death for adults deemed psychologically fit who suffer from terminal, incurable, and irreversible diseases. Patients must provide explicit written consent multiple times throughout the process.
Two independent physicians must certify all requirements are met, with a third opinion sought if disagreements arise. The legislation includes mandatory waiting periods between decision stages and allows medical professionals to exercise conscientious objection.
Felipe Schipani from the Colorado Party emphasized that the bill upholds freedom and human dignity. Federico Preve, a physician and Broad Front congressman, added that the measure prevents unnecessary suffering.
Opponents like Rodrigo Goñi from the National Party argue the bill lacks safeguards for vulnerable people and promotes death over palliative care. Public opinion heavily favors euthanasia legalization.
Uruguay’s Move Toward Euthanasia Decriminalization
Recent polls show between 55% and 82% of Uruguayans support such legislation. Even among religious believers, approval reaches 44% according to some surveys.
The incoming administration of President-elect Yamandú Orsi, taking office March 1, creates a potentially favorable environment for passage. Uruguay has a unique historical relationship with euthanasia.
Its Penal Code of 1934 stands as possibly the first legal document to include related provisions. The current proposal follows international precedents established in the Netherlands, Belgium, Canada, Spain, and several other countries.
Congressman-elect Preve has expressed confidence that Uruguay will decriminalize euthanasia by late 2025 or early 2026. The bill received 57 votes from the 96-member Parliament in its previous incarnation. The legislation now awaits committee review before potential floor debate in both chambers.
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