Americas
Uruguay
-
Index 2023
52/ 180
Score : 70.33
Political indicator
58
62.73
Economic indicator
50
55.08
Legislative indicator
34
78.73
Social indicator
65
74.90
Security indicator
66
80.20
Index 2022
44/ 180
Score : 72.03
Political indicator
44
70.30
Economic indicator
58
49.32
Legislative indicator
20
83.63
Social indicator
78
72.33
Security indicator
30
84.58

The Uruguayan political climate encourages constructive and inclusive dialogue on the media’s role in national life.

Media landscape

Although the media landscape is rather pluralistic in Uruguay, it is still dominated by three major companies: Villar/De Feo, Canal 10; Romay, Canal 4; and Cardoso/Scheck, Canal 12.

Political context

After being led for 15 years by a coalition of left-wing parties grouped into the Frente Amplio (Broad Front), Uruguay is now governed by conservative Luis Lacalle Pou, who was inaugurated in March 2020. Recent years have seen many cases of political pressure – involving members of the presidential staff – against journalists who have covered controversial  issues.

Legal framework

Decriminalization of press law violations, regulation of community radio, and open information access provide a suitable work environment for journalists in Uruguay. A broadcast law, adopted in December 2014, favors media pluralism. The law also provides for creation of a broadcast communications council independent of the executive branch. 

Economic context

The Uruguayan economy depends strongly on those of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. Natural resources are quite limited, especially because of the country’s small size. The service sector accounts for 60.9% of GDP, and employs 73.3% of the working population, largely in finance and tourism.

Sociocultural context

In recent years, despite a largely favorable professional environment, many investigative journalists have been subjected to threats, intimidation, and legal pressure.