Human Rights Watch (HRW) released a report on Wednesday highlighting significant gaps in the comprehensive care framework for individuals with disabilities in Uruguay.

According to the HRW report, while Uruguay is a leader in the Americas in integrating personal assistance for people with disabilities into its national care system, significant gaps remain in the provision of adequate services. These deficiencies hinder the independent living of individuals with disabilities, which ultimately impacts their human rights. The report highlights that eligibility restrictions within the Personal Assistants Program disproportionately exclude adults aged 29 to 79, as well as those residing in institutions, thereby limiting access to essential support services.

The report further emphasizes that despite Uruguay’s pioneering efforts in creating a comprehensive care framework, the current system does not sufficiently cater to the diverse needs of all individuals with disabilities. According to the report, the lack of tailored support undermines the effectiveness of the National Integrated Care System (SNIC), raising concerns regarding compliance with international human rights standards, particularly the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Additionally, HRW called for reforms to align Uruguay’s policies more closely with these standards, advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes the right to independent living for all individuals with disabilities.

Uruguay established its National Integrated Care System in 2015 through Law No. 19,353, which aimed to provide a structured approach to care for both older adults and people with disabilities. The SNIC was designed to include personal assistance services, which were initially not recognized in the original bill but were later added due to advocacy from disability rights activists. It was considered as a response to growing demands for comprehensive care services and aimed to address historical deficiencies in support systems.