As Uruguay heads to the polls on Sunday to elect its next president, here are five essential facts about this small yet notable Latin American country.
1. Progressive Legacy
With 3.4 million people nestled between Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay is a beacon of liberal reform. In the early 20th century, it became the first in the Catholic-dominated region to legalize divorce, abolish the death penalty, and grant women voting rights. From 2005 to 2020, the leftist Broad Front alliance legalized abortion, same-sex marriage, and recreational cannabis, while banning smoking in public spaces.
2. Wealthy but Costly
Uruguay ranks as Latin America’s second-richest nation, with a per-capita GDP exceeding $23,000. However, it’s also the most expensive, with high taxes like a 22% VAT and import duties of up to 35%. Petrol is among the priciest in the Americas.
3. Renewable Energy Leader
In 2022, over 90% of Uruguay’s electricity came from renewables, particularly wind power, despite challenges like a severe drought impacting hydropower. Agriculture, however, contributes 75% of its greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Passion for Mate and Meat
Uruguayans are devoted to mate, a traditional herbal tea, and lead the world in cattle per capita, with four cows per person. Beef is a dietary staple and its top export.
5. Football History
A two-time FIFA World Cup champion (1930, 1950), Uruguay boasts legendary players like Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, who retired in 2024. Football remains central to its identity.
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