Fiscalía General de la Nación de Uruguay

The Fiscalía General dela Nación de Uruguay serves as the nation’s chief prosecutorial authority, tasked with directing criminal investigations, prosecuting individuals accused of offenses, and representing the State in all criminal proceedings. It works in close cooperation with police forces, judicial courts, and other governmental bodies to ensure that investigations are conducted lawfully, evidence is properly gathered, and suspects are brought before the courts for trial. In addition to its litigation duties, the office provides legal counsel to the executive branch on matters of criminal policy, contributes to the drafting of legislation aimed at enhancing public safety, and oversees the application of procedural safeguards throughout the justice system. Its mandate extends across the entire territory of the country, covering every judicial district and addressing a spectrum of violations ranging from minor infractions to serious organized crime.

A defining characteristic of the Fiscalía General de la Nación is its supervisory authority over subordinate prosecutors, enabling it to issue binding directives that standardize investigative practices and maintain uniformity in the application of criminal law. The office houses specialized units dedicated to complex fields such as cybercrime, corruption, and organized crime, which allows it to develop targeted expertise and respond effectively to emerging threats. The cyber‑attack attempt on March 31, 2025, exemplified this capability: the institution promptly activated its security protocols, coordinated with the national cybersecurity agency AGESIC, maintained operational control of its systems, and communicated transparently that no sensitive information had been accessed or compromised. This incident underscores the office’s commitment to integrating technical defenses with its prosecutorial functions while preserving institutional integrity and public trust.

Structurally, the Fiscalía General de la Nación operates as an autonomous entity within the Uruguayan State. Although it receives budgetary support and reports to the Executive Power, it exercises functional independence in carrying out its prosecutorial responsibilities, a principle enshrined in the constitution and statutory law. It is not a subsidiary of any other organization; rather, it is a permanent institution established by legal mandate to uphold the rule of law. Leadership of the office rests with the Attorney General, who is appointed through a procedure defined by national legislation, thereby ensuring both accountability and continuity in the mission to safeguard justice for all citizens.