Unionized workers at Uruguay's state-run casinos will begin an indefinite nationwide strike across all gaming facilities starting December 26, according to the National Association of State Casino Workers (Anfuce).
The labor action stems from disputes over budget modifications implemented without collective bargaining, online gaming regulation disagreements and what the union characterizes as simulated negotiation processes.
Anfuce claims the measures violate current labor regulations and constitute a concealed salary reduction that undermines the administrative career structure affecting worker stability and professional development.
The union is demanding concrete solutions for seasonal casino workers to provide real job stability guarantees. Workers are also seeking participation in online gaming operations and their generated profits, viewing digital gaming as the future of their employment sector.
Anfuce has directed criticism at Director General Fernando Estévez Perrone, citing a lack of dialogue, unilateral decision-making, simulated collective bargaining instances and disrespectful treatment toward workers and their representatives. The union stated his actions have deepened the conflict and damaged labor relations within the organization.
The strike represents a significant escalation in tensions between Uruguay's state casino workforce and management as the country navigates the integration of online gaming into its gambling framework. State-run casinos have traditionally operated as a government monopoly in Uruguay, but the expansion of digital gaming platforms has created friction over how workers will be incorporated into this evolving sector.
Anfuce leadership will determine the specific modalities, scope and continuity of the measures in coming days based on how the conflict develops and how authorities respond to worker demands. The timing of the strike, which begins during the peak summer tourism season when casinos typically experience increased activity, adds pressure to resolve the dispute quickly.
The union represents public-sector workers at Uruguay's General Directorate of Casinos, under the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and leads labor disputes with state casino authorities
