“Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you.”
As Uruguay legalised euthanasia for the first time in Latin America, the Latin American Evangelical Alliance (AEL) and Uruguayan evangelical groups strongly denounced, Christian Daily International reported on the 28th. The Evangelical Alliance criticised it as a “bill that undermines the gift of life” and urged Christians across Latin America to stand firm in defending life from conception to its natural end.
Uruguay’s Senate passed the law on Oct. 15, 2025, by a vote of 20 to 11. With this, Uruguay became the first country in Latin America to legalise euthanasia through parliamentary approval. The decision, following earlier endorsement by the Chamber of Representatives’ 64 to 29 vote in August, was finalised with the Senate’s final approval. The general media called it an “unprecedented step in the region,” but the evangelical camp immediately protested.
The Evangelical Alliance issued a statement shortly after the Senate vote, warning that “The deliberate termination of life by the State sets a dangerous precedent.” Opponents of the measure argue that human life is an inalienable gift and point to palliative care as a compassionate and ethical alternative to end-of-life suffering. The Evangelical Alliance warned that the euthanasia bill promotes a “culture of death” and is directly contrary to Christian values centred on life, family and compassion.
The AEL’s declaration also cited legal precedents beyond theology. Referring to a 2024 ruling by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), the alliance noted that the court reaffirmed there is no “right to assisted suicide” under international law.
The AEL’s position aligns with previous declarations from evangelical leaders within Uruguay. The Evangelical Representation Council of Uruguay (CREU) had earlier stated, “We say, categorically, no to euthanasia. No to accelerating the process of death.” Their opposition reflects a consistent Christian concern that legalising euthanasia undermines both the value of human life and the moral duty of care for the suffering.
As the law now takes effect, the Uruguayan executive branch must draft regulations for its implementation. Yet the AEL’s statement suggests that this transition will not be without resistance. Evangelical churches in Uruguay and across Latin America are expected to take a more active role in shaping public debate on bioethical and social issues, positioning themselves as defenders of life and dignity.
The Evangelical Alliance emphasised, “Uruguay’s passage of law is not just a matter limited to a country, but a broader trend of the moral in wider Latin America,” affirming the conviction that “the defense of life remains central to the evangelical witness.” (Source: Gospel Prayer Newspaper, Edited Version)
How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings. (Proverbs 1:22-23)
God, we pray that You would rebuke Uruguay for legalizing euthanasia, which undermines the value of life through foolishness and arrogant hearts that rush after the ways of the world while thinking themselves wise. Let Your word of truth shine upon this land, that its people may discern Your good and life-giving will, turn back from the path of destruction and judgment, and learn to fear the LORD and establish righteous laws. As the church stays awake and prays in the face of the nation’s unlawful and irresponsible decisions, pour out the Holy Spirit, so that those who suffer and live in fear of death may be saved and come to praise You, our great and glorious God.
Prayer 24·365
prayer@prayer24365.org
