Analyzing and Explaining the Geostrategic and Geopolitical Position of Uruguay in Latin America

Uruguay, as one of the smallest countries in Latin America in terms of size and population, holds a unique position in the region's geostrategic and geopolitical dynamics. Its geographical location between two regional powers, Brazil and Argentina, enhances its significance in economic, political, and military matters. Through access to the Atlantic Ocean and its proximity to the Rio de la Plata, Uruguay plays a crucial role in facilitating regional and international trade. This positioning has enabled the country to become a hub for transportation and distribution of export goods from neighboring countries. From a geopolitical perspective, Uruguay, as a small yet strategic actor, has adopted a balanced foreign policy between the major regional powers. This approach has allowed the country to play a key role in strengthening regional cooperation, particularly within frameworks such as Mercosur. However, challenges such as economic and political pressures resulting from dependency on its neighbors and shifts in global policies significantly impact Uruguay's position. On the other hand, from a geostrategic standpoint, Uruguay's relative political and economic stability has made it an attractive destination for foreign investment. This characteristic, combined with transparent economic policies and a strong legal framework, has positioned the country as a successful model among international players. This article uses geopolitical and geostrategic theoretical frameworks to analyze Uruguay's position in Latin America. The findings reveal that despite its geographical and demographic limitations, Uruguay has managed to secure a prominent place in regional and international relations through intelligent policies and its strategic location.