Yamandú Orsi wins the presidency of Uruguay, marking a progressive shift from center-right governance. His agenda prioritizes tackling economic inequality, enhancing social spending, and emphasizing environmental sustainability. Concurrent issues in Cuba and the Sahrawi people’s ongoing struggles highlight the global pursuit of social justice and solidarity. These events reflect a critical time for progressive movements worldwide.
Amid a backdrop of global challenges, hope surfaces in Uruguay as Yamandú Orsi, representing the progressive Broad Front coalition, wins the presidential election on November 24, 2024. His triumph, with 50% of the vote over Álvaro Delgado of the National Party, signifies a political transformation, reflecting a shift towards a more equitable future. Members of the Progressive International Observatory were present to observe this significant electoral milestone.
Orsi, affiliated with the Popular Participation Movement within the Broad Front, is perceived as a successor to former president José ‘Pepe’ Mujica. His campaign emphasized inclusivity and progress, resonating with a populace confronting economic disparity, crime, and environmental concerns. As the first president from Uruguay’s interior, Orsi aims to unite rural and urban communities, supported by vice president-elect Carolina Cosse, former mayor of Montevideo.
Scheduled to take office on March 1, 2025, Orsi carries a vision for a fairer Uruguay. His election reverses five years of center-right governance, showcasing the capacity for progressive politics to thrive based on the public’s needs and aspirations. Orsi’s agenda focuses on reducing child poverty, which affects 25% of children in Uruguay, by enhancing social spending, job creation for youth, and increasing educational opportunities.
Addressing economic inequality, Orsi plans potential reforms including lowering the retirement age and reducing the standard workweek to 40 hours, aligning with trade union demands. He prioritizes environmental sustainability, harnessing Uruguay’s leadership in renewable energy by pursuing investments in green technologies and green hydrogen production. His foreign policy aims to bolster regional cooperation and carefully evaluate free trade agreements.
Meanwhile, the United States escalates its visa restriction policy targeting Cuban healthcare workers involved in international medical missions, curtailing Cuba’s historic contributions to global health efforts. Bruno Rodriguez, Cuba’s foreign minister, condemned this policy as one of multiple aggressive actions against the Cuban populace, invoking past assistance efforts during health crises.
As the Sahrawi people commemorate the 49th anniversary of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, they reflect on ongoing struggles against Moroccan occupation, bolstered by international solidarity. Concurrently, The Solidarity Movement in South Africa applauds US pressure against the country’s attempts for racial redress and supports free-market initiatives, expressing gratitude to President Trump.
The Progressive International recently collaborated with the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment to discuss the impact of sanctions against Cuba, engaging experts in a virtual conference aimed at reforming these policies. In parallel, significant discussions are ongoing in the UK Parliament regarding international law and solidarity for Palestine, led by the Progressive International’s representatives.
In investigating far-right influence, media reports reveal the extensive reach of the Reactionary International, encompassing various sectors and showcasing its disruptive role in global politics. Artifacts from the past, like Gladys Afamado’s artwork, remind us of historical movements against injustice and resonate with contemporary struggles for social justice.
In sum, these events illustrate a pivotal moment for Uruguay, the ongoing challenges faced by Cuba and the Sahrawi people, and highlight global movements advocating for social and political justice against powerful adversities.
Yamandú Orsi’s election as president of Uruguay marks a crucial transition towards a more equitable society following years of center-right governance. His progressive agenda addresses pressing issues like poverty, environmental sustainability, and social reform. Concurrently, international challenges, including US policies against Cuban healthcare workers, underscore the global struggle for solidarity and justice in various regions. As movements against injustice persist, they illustrate the enduring fight for equality and human rights across the world.
Original Source: progressive.international