INDDHH president Mariana Mota stressed that although companies have proposed environmental mitigation measures, these do not eliminate harm but only reduce its extent, raising questions about the economic and ecological trade-offs involved. The human rights institution further contends that the exploration activities contravene national environmental laws and relevant international conventions, framing them as violations of fundamental human rights.
Previously, in late 2025, environmental groups such as Asamblea Mar Libre de Petroleras Uruguay and Socobioma sought judicial injunctions to suspend the same projects, but a civil court ruled against jurisdiction, redirecting disputes to administrative courts without addressing environmental or constitutional concerns directly. The INDDHH action, given the supremacy of amparo remedies in human rights matters, introduces new legal pressure on the government and involved ministries, potentially delaying offshore hydrocarbon exploration timelines.
Operational readiness also underscores the sector’s urgency as the first seismic vessel, owned by Viridien, arrived in Montevideo port and awaits approval of its work plan, anticipating activity commencement in the first half of 2026. Market participants should monitor evolving court rulings and regulatory responses, which may affect investment and exploration commitments amid Uruguay’s growing commitment to maritime environmental protection.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
