• Uruguay has legalized euthanasia, becoming the first country in Latin America to do so.
• The "Dignified Death" bill passed after extensive debate, with 20 out of 31 legislators voting in favor.
• The law allows euthanasia for mentally competent adults in the terminal stage of incurable diseases.
• Public opinion significantly supports legal euthanasia, with 62% of Uruguayans in favor, according to polls.
• The legislation has been met with opposition primarily from the Catholic Church, emphasizing that life should be valued.

On October 15, Uruguay became the first country in Latin America to legalize euthanasia by passing the "Dignified Death" bill, which allows assisted suicide for terminally ill patients. The Senate's approval came with 20 votes in favor out of 31 present legislators, following an extensive 10-hour debate. This legislation marks a significant moment for a country with a history of socially liberal reforms, including the legalization of same-sex marriage, marijuana, and abortion, according to Le Monde, BBC, and CBS News.

The new law permits euthanasia for mentally competent adults suffering from irreversible diseases that cause unbearable pain. Patients must formally request euthanasia, and healthcare professionals will carry out the procedure. This legislative decision reflects a growing acceptance of assisted dying in Uruguay, driven by public opinion, with over 62% of the populace supporting the measure, as highlighted by a consulting firm, Cifra, according to Le Monde, BBC, and CBS News.

During the debate, some senators noted that similar societal shifts have occurred in the past, drawing comparisons to earlier liberalizing reforms. Senator Patricia Kramer emphasized the necessity to address public demands for such legislation. However, fierce opposition primarily arose from the Catholic Church, which expressed concerns that legalizing euthanasia undermines the sanctity of life. Archbishop Daniel Sturla denounced the law as fundamentally wrong, claiming it may lead to viewing lives as expendable, as reported by BBC and CBS News.

Uruguay’s approach to euthanasia stands apart from similar regulations in countries like Colombia and Ecuador, where the practice has been decriminalized rather than legalized through legislative means. This law illustrates Uruguay's commitment to progressive social policy and showcases its stance as a leader in the region concerning rights around suffering, according to Le Monde, BBC, and CBS News.