Uruguay presents democratic regulation framework for major digital platforms, including gambling services

Uruguay has introduced a new policy proposal aimed at developing a democratic system for regulating major digital platforms — including social media and online gambling services. The initiative, titled “Foundations for a Democratic Regulation of Major Digital Platforms in Uruguay”, was presented to Parliament by Observacom and Datysoc, with support from UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC).

The document outlines a framework to promote transparency, accountability and protection of citizens’ rights in the digital ecosystem. It includes 15 key recommendations such as algorithmic transparency, differentiated obligations for large platforms, and clear due-process guarantees for users affected by content moderation.

A significant aspect of the proposal is its inclusion of online gambling and betting platforms within the definition of “major digital platforms”. According to the authors, gambling operators have social and economic influence comparable to that of large technology companies and must therefore be subject to democratic oversight and public accountability.

The paper was developed through a broad consultation process held between July and September 2025, which included four public round-tables and over 120 citizen contributions from lawmakers, researchers, journalists, civil-society groups and industry representatives.

Although the proposal is not yet a draft law, its submission to Parliament signals Uruguay’s growing ambition to become a Latin American leader in digital governance. Experts note that, for the gambling industry, this framework could lead to stricter transparency obligations, more robust supervision and potential adjustments to licensing and compliance procedures.