URUGUAY

Compiled from the February 2005 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Oriental Republic of Uruguay

PROFILE

Geography

Area: 176,000 sq. km. (68,000 sq. mi.); slightly smaller than Oklahoma.

Cities: Capital—Montevideo (est. pop. 1.4 million).

Terrain: Plains and low hills; 84% agricultural.

Climate: Temperate.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Uruguayan(s).

Population: (2004) 3.4 million.

Annual growth rate: 0.6%.

Ethnic groups: (est.) European descent 93%, African descent 5%, mestizo 1%.

Religions: Roman Catholic 52%, Protestant and other Christian 16%, Jewish 2%, non-professing or other 30%.

Languages: Spanish.

Education: Literacy (2004)—97%.

Health: Life expectancy (2004)—75.4 yrs. (79.2 yrs females; 71.3 yrs. males). Infant mortality rate—15/1,000 (2003).

Work force: (1.3 million, 2004) Manufacturing—13.5%; agriculture—4.0%; services—75%.

Government

Type: Republic.

Independence: 1825.

Constitution: First 1830, current 1967, most recently amended December 1996.

Branches: Executive—president (chief of state and head of government). Legislative—General Assembly consisting of a 99-seat Chamber of Deputies and a 30-seat Senate. Judicial—Supreme Court of Justice.

Administrative subdivisions: 19 departments with limited autonomy.

Political parties : Colorado Party, Blanco (National) Party, Encuentro Progresista-Frente Amplio, Nuevo Espacio.

Suffrage: Universal at 18.

Economy

(2004 unless noted)

Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $13.3 billion (estimate); $11.2 billion (2003)

Annual growth rate: 11% (esti-mate); +2.5% (2003); -11.0% (2002); - 3.4% (2001).

Per capita GDP: $3,900 (estimate); $3,300 (2003).

Natural resources: Arable land, pastures, hydroelectric power, granite, marble.

Agriculture: (12% of GDP) Products—beef, wool, rice, wheat, barley, corn.

Industry: (18% of GDP) Types—meat processing, wool, textiles, leather, leather apparel, beverages and tobacco, chemicals, cement, petroleum refining.

Services: 70% of GDP.

Trade: Exports (f.o.b.)—$3.0 billion: meat, wool, hides, leather, wool products, fish, rice, furs. Major markets—United States (19.8%), Brazil (16.3%), Argentina (7.6%), Germany (5.1%), Mexico (4.0%), China (3.9%). Imports (c.i.f.) —$2.4 billion: machinery, chemicals, fuel, vehicles. Major suppliers—Brazil and Argentina (25.7% each), United States (9.0%), China (7.1%), Germany (3.4%).

PEOPLE

Uruguayans share a Spanish linguistic and cultural background, even though about one-quarter of the population is of Italian origin. Most are nominally Roman Catholic although the majority of Uruguayans do not actively practice a religion. Church and state are officially separated.

Uruguay is distinguished by its high literacy rate, large urban middle class, and relatively even income distribution. The average Uruguayan standard of living compares favorably with that of most other Latin Americans. Metropolitan Montevideo, with about 1.4 million inhabitants, is the only large city. The rest of the urban population lives in about 20 towns. During the past two decades, an estimated 500,000 Uruguayans have emigrated, principally to Argentina and Spain. Emigration to the United States also rose significantly. As a result of the low birth rate, high life expectancy, and relatively high rate of emigration of younger people, Uruguay's population is quite mature.

HISTORY

The only inhabitants of Uruguay before European colonization of the area were the Charrua Indians, a small tribe driven south by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay. The Spanish discovered the territory of present-day Uruguay in 1516, but the Indians' fierce resistance to conquest, combined with the absence of gold and silver, limited settlement in the region during the 16th and 17th centuries. The Spanish introduced cattle, which became a source of wealth in the region. Spanish colonization increased as Spain sought to limit Portugal's expansion of Brazil's frontiers.

Montevideo was founded by the Spanish in the early 18th century as a military stronghold; its natural harbor soon developed into a commercial center competing with Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires. Uruguay's early 19th century history was shaped by ongoing conflicts between the British, Spanish, Portuguese, and colonial forces for dominance in the Argentina-Brazil-Uruguay region. In 1811, Jose Gervasio Artigas, who became Uruguay's national hero, launched a successful revolt against Spain. In 1821, the Provincia Oriental del Rio de la Plata, present-day Uruguay, was annexed to Brazil by Portugal. The Provincia declared independence from Brazil in August 25, 1825 (after numerous revolts in 1821, 1823, and 1825) but decided to adhere to a regional federation with Argentina.

The regional federation defeated Brazil after 3-year war. The 1828 Treaty of Montevideo, fostered by the United Kingdom, gave birth to Uruguay as an independent state. The nation's first constitution was adopted in 1830. The remainder of the 19th century, under a series of elected and appointed presidents, saw interventions by neighboring states, political and economic fluctuations, and large inflows of immigrants, mostly from Europe. Jose Batlle y Ordoñez, president from 1903 to 1907 and again from 1911 to 1915, set the pattern for Uruguay's modern political development. He established widespread political, social, and economic reforms such as a welfare program, government participation in many facets of the economy, and a plural executive. Some of these reforms were continued by his successors.

By 1966, economic, political, and social difficulties led to constitutional amendments, and a new constitution was adopted in 1967. In 1973, amid increasing economic and political turmoil, the armed forces closed the Congress and established a civilian-military regime, characterized by repression and widespread human rights abuses. A new constitution drafted by the military was rejected in a November 1980 plebiscite. Following the plebiscite, the armed forces announced a plan for return to civilian rule. National elections were held in 1984. Colorado Party leader Julio Maria Sanguinetti won the presidency and served from 1985 to 1990. The first Sanguinetti administration implemented economic reforms and consolidated democracy following the country's years under military rule.

Sanguinetti's economic reforms, focusing on the attraction of foreign trade and capital, achieved some success and stabilized the economy. In order to promote national reconciliation and facilitate the return of democratic civilian rule, Sanguinetti secured public approval by plebiscite of a controversial general amnesty for military leaders accused of committing human rights violations under the military regime, and sped the release of former guerrillas.

The National Party's Luis Alberto Lacalle won the 1989 presidential election and served from 1990 to 1995. Lacalle executed major structural economic reforms and pursued further liberalization of the trade regime. Uruguay became a founding member of MERCOSUR in 1991 (the Southern Cone Common Market, which includes Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay). Despite economic growth during Lacalle's term, adjustment and privatization efforts provoked political opposition, and some reforms were overturned by referendum.

In the 1994 elections, former President Sanguinetti won a new term, which ran from 1995 until March 2000. As no single party had a majority in the General Assembly, the National Party joined with Sanguinetti's Colorado Party in a coalition government. The Sanguinetti government continued Uruguay's economic reforms and integration into MERCOSUR. Other important reforms were aimed at improving the electoral system, social security, education, and public safety. The economy grew steadily for most of Sanguinetti's term, until low commodity prices and economic difficulties in its main export markets caused a recession in 1999, which continued into 2003.

The 1999 national elections were held under a new electoral system established by constitutional amendment. Primaries in April decided single presidential candidates for each party, and national elections on October 31 determined representation in the legislature. As no presidential candidate received a majority in the October election, a runoff was held in November. In the runoff, Colorado Party candidate Jorge Batlle, aided by the support of the National Party, defeated Frente Amplio candidate Tabare Vazquez.

The legislative coalition of the Colorado and National parties that held during most of Batlle's administration ended in November 2002, when the Blancos withdrew their ministers from the cabinet. Throughout most of his administration, President Batlle had to handle Uruguay's largest economic crisis in recent history, which impacted on poverty and led to increased emigration. Aside from successfully

addressing the crisis, Batlle increased international trade, attracted foreign investment and tried to resolve issues related to Uruguayans who disappeared during the military government.

On June 27, 2004 the parties held primary elections to select their candidates for the national elections to be held on October 31. The Frente Amplio had already determined that Vazquez would be its candidate, the Colorados settled on former Interior Minister Guillermo Stirling, and the Blanco Party chose Jorge Larranaga, a former state governor and senator. Vazquez won the national election in the first round with a majority of the popular vote (50.7%) and will be sworn in as President on March 1, 2005.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Uruguay's 1967 constitution institutionalizes a strong presidency, subject to legislative and judicial checks. The president's term is 5 years. Thirteen cabinet ministers, appointed by the president, head executive departments. The constitution provides for a bicameral General Assembly responsible for enacting laws and regulating the administration of justice. The General Assembly consists of a 30-member Senate, presided over by the vice president of the republic, and a 99-member Chamber of Deputies. In the October 2004 general elections, the Frente Amplio won the presidency in the first round with 50.7% and a majority of the seats in each chamber. The National (Blanco) Party won 34.1%, the Colorado Party 10.3%, and the Independent Party 1.8%.

The highest court is the Supreme Court; below it are appellate and lower courts and justices of the peace. In addition, there are electoral and administrative ("contentious") courts, an accounts court, and a military judicial system.

Principal Government Officials

Last Updated: 12/23/04

President: Jorge BATLLE
Vice President: Luis HIERRO
Min. of Agriculture & Fishing: Martin AGUIRREZABALA
Min. of Economy & Finance: Isaac ALFIE
Min. of Education, Culture, Sports, & Youth: Jose Amorin BATLLE
Min. of Foreign Affairs: Didier OPERTTI
Min. of Health: Conrado BONILLA
Min. of Housing & Environment: Saul IRURETA Saralegui
Min. of Industry, Energy, & Mines: Jose VILLAR
Min. of Interior: Alejo FERNANDEZ Chavez
Min. of Labor & Social Welfare: Santiago PEREZ del Castillo
Min. of National Defense: Yamandu FAU
Min. of Tourism: Pedro BORDABERRY
Min. of Transportation & Public Works: Gabriel PAIS
President, Central Bank: Julio DE BRUN
Ambassador to the US: Hugo FERNANDEZ Faingold
Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Felipe Hector PAOLILLO

Uruguay maintains an embassy in the United States at 2715 M Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007 (tel. 202-331-1313, fax 202-331-8142). Uruguay maintains consulates in Miami, Los Angeles, and New York.

ECONOMY

Uruguay's economy remains dependent on agriculture. Agricultural production, which accounts for only 12% of GDP, and the industrial sector (18% of GDP), based on the transformation of agricultural products, make up more than half of the country's exports. Leading economic sectors include meat processing, agribusiness, wood, wool, leather production and apparel, textiles, and chemicals. Though still relatively small, the software industry is growing rapidly.

The Batlle administration had to manage the steepest economic and financial crisis in recent history, which developed mostly from external factors. Devaluation in Brazil in 1999 made Uruguayan goods less competitive, and an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in 2001 curtailed beef exports to North America.

Starting in late 2001, an economic crisis in Argentina undermined Uruguay's economy, with exports to Argentina and tourist revenues falling dramatically. In mid-2002 Argentine withdrawals from Uruguayan banks started a bank run that was overcome only by massive borrowing from international financial institutions. This, in turn, led to serious debt sustainability problems.

A successful debt swap helped restore confidence and significantly reduced country risk. Uruguay's economy resumed growth in 2003, with a 2.5% rise in GDP. GDP grew about 11% in 2004 and 5.0%-6.0% growth is expected for 2005.

Batlle's strategy to stimulate growth was based on increasing exports, especially to North America. Uruguay enjoys a positive investment climate, with a strong legal system and open financial markets. It grants equal treatment to national and foreign investors and, aside from very few sectors, there is neither de jure nor de facto discrimination toward investment by source or origin.

Uruguay has traditionally favored substantial state involvement in the economy, and privatization is still widely opposed. Recent governments have carried out cautious programs of economic liberalization similar to those in many other Latin American countries. They included lowering tariffs, controlling deficit spending, reducing inflation, and cutting the size of government.

The Lacalle administration implemented a 1991 state company reform law, though privatization was stalled when voters rejected the sale of the state telephone company, ANTEL, in a 1992 referendum. Long-distance calls and data transmission were opened to competition in 2001, but basic telephony still remains a state monopoly. Other former state sectors have been partially liberalized, including insurance, mortgages, road construction and repair, piped-gas distribution, energy generation, water sanitation and distribution, cellular telephony, and airline transportation. Another law, passed in 2000, demonopolized oil refining activities and allowed the state energy company to associate with foreign partners, while still remaining under government control. However, the law was repealed in a popular referendum.

NATIONAL SECURITY

The armed forces are constitutionally subordinate to the president through the minister of defense. By offering early retirement incentives, the government has trimmed the armed forces to about 14,500 for the army, 6,000 for the navy, and 3,000 for the air force. As of February 2003, Uruguay had 1,754 soldiers deployed in 11 UN peacekeeping missions. The largest groups were in the Congo, where 1,549 Uruguayan troops controlled one sector of the country, and the Sinai, where 60 troops were stationed.

FOREIGN RELATIONS

Uruguay traditionally has had strong political and cultural links with its neighbors and Europe. With globalization and regional economic problems, its links to North America have strengthened. Uruguay is a strong advocate of constitutional democracy, political pluralism, and individual liberties. Its international relations historically have been guided by the principles of non-intervention, multilateralism, respect for national sovereignty, and reliance on the rule of law to settle disputes. Uruguay's international relations also reflect its drive to seek export markets and foreign investment. It is a founding member of MERCOSUR. In June 1991, MERCOSUR and the United States signed the Rose Garden Agreement (also known as the "Four Plus One" Agreement). The agreement was non-operational until June 2001 when MERCOSUR invited the U.S. to discuss the feasibility of market access negotiations. The first U.S.-MERCOSUR meeting was held on September 24, 2001, and resulted in the creation of four working groups on industrial trade, e-commerce, agriculture, and investment. However, meetings have been sporadic.

Uruguay is a member of the Rio Group, an association of Latin American states that deals with multilateral security issues (under the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance). Uruguay's location between Argentina and Brazil makes close relations with these two larger neighbors and MERCOSUR associate members Chile and Bolivia particularly important. An early proponent of the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative, Uruguay has actively participated in the follow-up process to the periodic Summits of the Americas, especially the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). Usually considered a neutral country and blessed with a professional diplomatic corps, Uruguay is often called on to preside over international bodies. Uruguay chairs the FTAA agricultural committee and is a member of the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), a trade association based in Montevideo that includes 10 South American countries plus Mexico and Cuba.

U.S.-URUGUAYAN RELATIONS

U.S.-Uruguayan relations traditionally have been based on a common outlook and emphasis on democratic ideals. Uruguay works closely with the United States bilaterally and internationally to foster economic growth, trade, and political cooperation. Under President Batlle, Uruguay has been particularly open to increasing ties with the United States. Improved trade ties with the U.S. have been the Batlle administration's priority. In 2002, Uruguay and the U.S. created a Joint Commission on Trade and Investment (JCTI) to exchange ideas on a variety of economic topics. In March 2003, the JCTI identified six areas of concentration until the eventual signing of the FTAA in 2005: customs issues, intellectual property protection, investment, labor, environment, and trade in goods. In 2004, Uruguay and the U.S. signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty and an Open Skies Agreement. More than 80 U.S.-owned companies operate in Uruguay, and many more market U.S. goods and services.

Uruguay cooperates with the U.S. on law enforcement matters such as regional efforts to fight drug trafficking and terrorism. It has also been very active in human rights issues, sponsoring UN resolutions on the human rights situation in Cuba in 2002 and 2003.

From 1999 through early 2003 Uruguayan citizens were exempted from visas when entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. This exemption was withdrawn on April 16, 2003, based on the high overstay rates for Uruguayans and worldwide national security concerns.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

MONTEVIDEO (E) Address: Lauro Muller 1776; APO/FPO: APO AA 34035; Phone: (598) (2) 418-7777; Fax: 598-2-418 8611; Workweek: 8:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Website: http://uruguay.usembassy.gov

Other Contact Information

U.S. Department of Commerce
Trade Information Center
International Trade Administration
14th and Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20230
Tel: 800-USA-TRADE
Home page: http://www.ita.doc.gov

American Chamber of Commerce in Uruguay
Plaza Independencia 831, Oficina 209
Edificio Plaza Mayor
11100 Montevideo, Uruguay
Tel: (5982) 908-9186
Fax: (5982) 908-9187
Home page: http://www.uruguaychamber.com/
E-mail: [email protected]

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet

October 13, 2004

Country Description: Uruguay is a middle-income nation with a developing economy. The quality of facilities for tourism varies, according to price and area. The capital city is Montevideo.

Entry/Exit Requirements: A passport is required. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for a visit of less than three months. For further information on entry requirements, contact the Embassy of Uruguay at 1913 "Eye" Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006, tel. (202) 331-1313; E-mail: [email protected]; Embassy home page: http://www.embassy.org/uruguay/. Travelers may also contact the Consulate of Uruguay or the Honorary Consul in Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Reno, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, San Juan, Puerto Rico or Seattle.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

For any child under the age of 18, Uruguayan authorities require that the non-traveling parent grant his/her authorization for the traveling parent to leave the country with the child by signing a notarized document called a permiso de menor, which must be presented to immigration officers at the airport, port, or land border crossing. If a child travels without both parents, even in a group, then both must sign the document.

For more information on obtaining the permiso de menor, contact the Direccion Nacional de Migracion at (598) (2) 916-0471.

Dual Nationality: In addition to being subject to all Uruguayan laws affecting U.S. citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Uruguayan citizens. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

Safety and Security: Due to Uruguay's close proximity to the Tri-Border Area (Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay), activities related to terrorism are a concern, but there are no recent reports of credible threats directed against American interests in Uruguay specifically. Throughout Uruguay, there is little anti-American sentiment. Almost no acts of civil unrest have been reported within the country. Demonstrations and public protests occasionally occur, although they are not directed against the United States. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Uruguay are advised to take common-sense precautions and avoid any large gatherings or any other event where crowds have congregated to demonstrate or protest. If such an event occurs, additional advice may be obtained from the U.S. Embassy at the telephone numbers listed in paragraph 18. The locations and times of demonstrations are generally advertised in advance in the local media.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays.)

Crime: In the capital city of Montevideo, petty street crimes, such as pick pocketing, purse snatching, confrontational robberies, and thefts from unsecured automobiles, occur daily. Such crimes are usually non-violent, but the potential for violence exists if perpetrators are armed and victims resist. Potential thieves roam at all hours seeking "targets of opportunity" in the downtown areas of Montevideo such as Ciudad Vieja, Avenida 18 de Julio, Plaza Independencia, and the vicinity around the port. Visitors should avoid walking in those areas and use taxis when possible, especially at night. Victims are usually foreign tourists, individuals openly carrying valuable items, and motorists in unlocked vehicles stopped at busy intersections, particularly on Montevideo's riverfront road known as the Rambla. Drivers should keep all car doors locked, the driver's window open only one inch, and purses, bags, briefcases and other valuables out of sight on the floor or in the trunk. Parked cars, particularly in the Carrasco neighborhood, are also increasingly targeted for break-ins. During the summer months (December-March), beach resort areas such as Punta del Este attract tourists, and petty street crimes and residential burglaries—similar to those that occur in Montevideo—rise significantly. Visitors are advised to exercise common sense in the conduct of their activities around Montevideo and in Uruguayan resort areas. They should be very attentive to personal security and their surroundings in the aforementioned areas.

Uruguayan law enforcement authorities have increased the number of uniformed policemen on foot in areas where criminal activity is concentrated, and the number of patrol cars in residential areas. The clearly marked patrol cars are equipped with cellular phones and the phone numbers are conspicuously painted on the vehicles.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, help you find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

Medical Facilities: Facilities for medical care are considered adequate. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

Other Health Information: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Uruguay is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:

Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Good

The Uruguayan Ministry of Transportation is responsible for maintaining safe road conditions countrywide. Excerpts from its voluminous Spanish-language road conditions inventory (unavailable on Internet) may be requested from the Embassy by fax at 598-2-408-4110 or e-mail at [email protected]. The Uruguayan Ministry of Interior highway police (tel. 1954) are responsible for traffic safety on highways and other roads beyond city limits. In urban and suburban areas, transit police and municipal employees share road safety responsibilities.

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Wearing seat belts and using headlights on highways and other inter-city roads 24 hours a day are mandatory. Children under 12 must ride in the back seat.

Motorcyclists must wear helmets. The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited. Right turns on red lights and left turns at most intersections marked with a stoplight are not permitted. Drivers approaching an intersection from the right or already in traffic circles have the right of way. Flashing high beams indicate intent to pass or continue through unmarked intersections. For driving under the influence, violators are fined and confiscated licenses may be retained for up to six months. In accidents causing injury or death, drivers are brought before a judge who decides if incarceration is warranted.

Inter-city travel is via bus, taxi, car service (remise), car and motorcycle. Speed limits are posted on highways and some main roads. Most taxis have no seat belts in the back seat. Cycling outside the capital or small towns is hazardous due to a scarcity of bike paths, narrow road shoulders and unsafe driving practices.

Illumination, pavement markings and road surfaces are sometimes poor. Route 1, which runs between Montevideo and Colonia or Punta del Este, and Route 2, between Rosario and Fray Bentos, are particularly accident-ridden because of heavy tourist traffic. Road accidents rise during the austral summer beach season (December to March), Car-naval (mid-to-late February) and Easter Week.

Within Montevideo, the emergency number to contact the police, fire department, rescue squad, or ambulance service is 911. In the rest of the country, dial 02-911 to connect with the Montevideo central emergency authority, which will then contact the local emergency service. The Automobile Club of Uruguay responds to emergency calls for roadside assistance at 1707, "Car Up" at 0800-1501 and the Automobile Center of Uruguay at 2-408-6131/2091. SEMM (tel. 159) and UCM (tel. 147), Montevideo-based ambulance services manned by doctors, have agreements with emergency medical units in other cities.

The Uruguayan Ministry of Transportation is designing a road-specific web site. Current government web sites contain some road safety-related information at: http://minterior.gub.uy/unidades/caminera.htm and http://www.montevideo.gub.uy/transito/Indice.htm

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_roadsafety.html. For specific information concerning Uruguayan driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Uruguayan National Tourist Organization offices in Coral Gables, Florida via the Internet at http://www.turismo.gub.uy/or at tel. (305) 443-7431.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Uruguay's civil aviation authority as Category 2*—not in compliance with international aviation safety standards for the oversight of Uruguay's air carrier operations. Consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing. No additional flights or new service to the U.S. by Uruguay's air carriers will be permitted unless they arrange to have the flights conducted by an air carrier from a country meeting international safety standards. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at telephone 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

Customs Regulations: Uruguay's customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Uruguay of items such as: precious jewels, gold, firearms, pornography, subversive literature, inflammable articles, acids, prohibited drugs (medications), plants, seeds, and foodstuffs as well as some antiquities and business equipment. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Uruguay in Washington, D.C. or one of Uruguay's consulates in the U.S. for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Note: Travelers entering Uruguay with precious jewels or gold worth more than $500.00 (U.S.) must declare them to customs officers at the port of entry or face possible detention or seizure of the goods and charges of contraband or evasion of customs controls. Visitors are expected to comply with local law and regulations by approaching a customs officer before routine inspection of all incoming baggage, conducted on standard security equipment.

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found here.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the U.S. and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the U.S. for similar offenses.

Persons violating Uruguayan laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Uruguay are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien, to engage in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18, whether or not the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien intended to engage in such illicit sexual conduct prior to going abroad. For purposes of the PROTECT Act, illicit sexual conduct includes any commercial sex act in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18. The law defines a commercial sex act as any sex act, on account of which anything of value is given to or received by a person under the age of 18.

Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, it is a crime to use the mail or any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transmit information about a minor under the age of 16 for criminal sexual purposes that include, among other things, the production of child pornography. This same law makes it a crime to use any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transport obscene materials to minors under the age of 16.

The Uruguayan Ministry of Agriculture and Fishing strictly enforces all regulations regarding hunting permits, as well as seasonal and numerical limits on game. Visitors who contravene local law have been detained by the authorities and had valuable personal property (weapons) seized. Under Uruguayan law, seized weapons can only be returned after payment of a sum equivalent to the value of the property seized. Hunters are also subject to stiff fines for practicing the sport without all appropriate permits.

Disaster Preparedness: General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/. Within the Uruguayan Office of the Presidency, the Sistema Nacional de Emergencias would handle local disaster response.

Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/family/index.html, or telephone the Overseas Citizens Services call center at 1-888-407-4747. The OCS call center can answer general inquiries regarding international adoptions and abductions and will forward calls to the appropriate country officer in the Bureau of Consular Affairs. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

Registration/Embassy and Consulate Locations: Americans living in or visiting Uruguay are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Uruguay. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

Americans without Internet access may register directly at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo. The U.S. Embassy is located at Lauro Muller 1776; telephone (598)(2) 418-7777; fax (598) (2) 418-4110 or -8611. Internet: http://uruguay.usembassy.gov/. Consular Section hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., except U.S. and Uruguayan holidays.

International Adoption

January 2005

The information below has been edited from a report of the State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services. For more information, please read the International Adoption section of this book and review current reports online at www.travel.state.gov/family.

Disclaimer: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign legal counsel.

Please Note: A special commission of Uruguayan. Uruguayan Congressional members are presently working on changes to the adoption code in Uruguay. It will be sometime before this work is completed. According to one Congressman they will try to make the adoption code more flexible.

Uruguay Adoption Procedures: Anyone wishing to adopt Uruguayan children should contact the Instituto Nacional del Menor (INAME), Instituto de Adopción, Río Branco 1394, Montevideo, Uruguay or Movimiento Familiar Cristiano, Colonia 1738, Montevideo Uruguay, and the Foreign Ministry regarding the necessary documents and other requirements. Most adoptions are decreed by the Juzgado de la Familia (Family Court), in conjunction with INAME. Adoption documents are registered at the Dirección del Registro de Estado Civil (Civil Registry) within 30 days of the adoption

Uruguayan Adoption Law: There are two methods of adoption in Uruguay:

1. "Adopción"—This requires the consent of the biological parents, if they are alive, or of the child's legal representative. After "adopción", the child is still considered to belong to his natural family and maintains his legal rights as a child in that family despite the fact that he is legally adopted by someone else. "Adopción" is completed through public notice/documentation. INAME certifies the "moral fitness" and financial stability of the adoptive parents after they have had the child under their care and protection for two years. Adoption can be revoked for "just cause".

2. "Legitimación Adoptiva"—To be eligible, the child must be abandoned, orphaned (both parents deceased), a ward of the state, or the child of unknown parents. Adoptive parents must be "morally fit", financially able, and have had the child under their guardianship or custody for at least one year.

Age and Civil Status Requirements: Uruguayan adoptive parents are given preference in adoptions, and there are few children available for adoption by foreigners. Anyone over age 30 may adopt, irrespective of marital status, provided there is at least a 20-year age difference between the adoptive parent and child. It is desirable, but not mandatory, that the adopting parents live in Uruguay during the period of custody before the adoption is complete. Only in exceptional cases is the removal of children abroad permitted before the adoption is finalized. The child can travel abroad only with the authorization of the judge.

1. "Adopción"—Anyone over the age of 30 is eligible to adopt a child, irrespective of marital status, as long as the adoptive parent is 20 years older than the child.

2. "Legitimación Adoptiva"—Adoptive parents must have been married for at least five years, be over the age of 30 and be more than 15 years older than the child.

Residential Requirements: Uruguay requires that the adoptive parent live in Uruguay for at least one month before they can take the child to the United States. They are granted provisional custody, which is controlled by the adoption agency, which completes the home study. After one year the judge authorizes the U. S. to adoption, thus making it unnecessary for the family to return to Uruguay to complete adoption procedures. During that time, they are subject to home visits, interviews and studies conducted by social workers. Although Uruguay permits adoption by foreigners, laws requiring one to two year residence with the child before the adoption is finalized create a practical barrier. No U.S. citizens have requested the IR3 or the IR4 visas in the last five years. Consequently the Embassy has no record of recent Uruguayan adoptions by U.S. citizens.

Adoption Agencies and Attorneys: Uruguay has not designated any U.S. adoption agencies to handle adoption of Uruguayan children. It is necessary to retain an Uruguayan attorney to assist in the adoption process. The Department of State's Office of Children's Issues and the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers practicing in Uruguay upon request.

Doctors: The U.S. Embassy maintains current lists of doctors and sources for medicines, should either you or your child experience health problems while in Uruguay.

Uruguay Documentary Requirements: The following documentation is required to apply for adoption of an Uruguayan child:

• A home study carried out by an official organization regarding the health, socio-economic and psychological condition of the adopting parent.
• A formal request for a child within a specific age group (determined by the agency conducting the home study)
• Birth and marriage certificates.

Foreign documents must be authenticated and translated into Spanish. U.S. civil records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates must bear the seal of the issuing office.

Uruguayan Adoption Records: Upon adoption, the child's Uruguayan birth certificate is not amended. Rather, it is modified and reissued showing the adoptive parents as the biological parents. As such, there is no indication that the child is adopted or that his/her biological parents are other than those listed.

U.S. Immigration Requirements: An Uruguay child adopted by an U.S. citizen must obtain an immigrant visa before he or she can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. Please see the International Adoption section of this book for more details and review current reports online at travel.state.gov/family

Uruguay Embassy (and Consulates) in the United States: Embassy of Uruguay; Consular Section; 2715 M. Street N.W., 3rd. Floor; Washington, D.C. 20007; Tel: (202) 331-1313, Fax: (202) 331-8142.

Uruguay also has consulates in Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, New York, and San Juan (Puerto Rico).

U.S. Embassy in Uruguay: U.S. Embassy Montevideo; Lauro Muller 1776; Montevideo; Tel [598] (2) 203-60-60 or 418-77-77; Fax 598-2-4188611; Web site: http://www.embeeuu.gub.uy

U.S. Embassy Assistance: Upon arrival in Uruguay to try to arrange an adoption, U.S. citizens should register at the U.S. Embassy, Consular Section, and U.S. Citizens Services. The Embassy will be able to provide information about any outstanding travel advisories and to provide other information about Uruguay, including lists of physicians, attorneys, interpreters and translators. The U.S. Embassy is located at Lauro Muller 1776, Montevideo, Uruguay. Telephone: 598-2-418-7777.; Fax: 598-2-418-4110.

Questions: Specific questions regarding adoption in Uruguay may be addressed to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Uruguay. You may also contact the Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, 2201 C Street, NW, U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 20520-2818, Tel: 1-888-407-4747 with specific questions.