Uruguay's Social Dialogue proposes reforms for retirement, childcare, and parental leave

Uruguay is embarking on a significant reform of its social security system, guided by the comprehensive findings of the Social Dialogue initiative. After eight months of intensive work, the presented guidelines offer a roadmap for crucial changes, particularly in areas of retirement age, childhood protection, and parental leave, aiming to foster a more cohesive and supportive society.

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el centro de la protección social” en un país como Uruguay busca una “convivencia social cohesionada, de desarrollo humano y capaz de proyectar distintas trayectorias vitales”.

A major focus of the reform is the enhanced protection of children and adolescents. The initiative proposes unifying various existing benefits, such as family allowances and social welfare cards, into a single, more transparent, and equitable system. This consolidation, along with increased financial support for pregnant women and children up to three years old, signifies a strong national commitment to the well-being of our youngest citizens.

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Quiero destacar el gran acuerdo nacional que tenemos hoy sobre atender a las infancias y las adolescencias.

Significant adjustments are also planned for parental leave policies. The proposal advocates for a progressive increase in paternity leave, aiming for a minimum of 30 days, and seeks to extend the duration of parental leave to nine months. Crucially, it includes a provision requiring fathers to utilize a determined portion of this extended leave, promoting a more balanced distribution of caregiving responsibilities within families. These changes reflect Uruguay's forward-thinking approach to social welfare and family support.

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Hay un compromiso del gobierno nacional de que en la próxima Rendición de Cuentas el sistema de protección social a la infancia va a estar sujeto a profundas modificaciones: va a ser más transparente, justo, sostenible y solvente.