2026 Elections

WCN 2029 Candidate Statement: Uruguay

Uruguay 2029: Bid for the World Congress of Neurology

The Society of Neurology of Uruguay (SNU) proudly nominates Punta del Este as the venue for the World Congress of Neurology (WCN) 2029, marking the return of the congress to the Americas under a fundamental premise: impeccable execution and zero operational risk. We emphasize that the SNU is organizing the XVIII Pan-American Congress of Neurology in 2027, as well as the centenary celebration of the Institute of Neurology—both hosted in Uruguay—which speaks to our track record in hosting international events.

Zero risk: stability, security and financial viability

Uruguay stands out in the region for its solid democratic stability, citizen security meeting international standards, and a rigorous ethical framework fully aligned with EFPIA and IFPMA regulations. In the financial sphere, the country offers a decisive differentiating benefit: total VAT exemption (Zero-Rate) for international congress operations—covering room rental, audiovisual equipment, and registration services—which maximizes the return on investment and guarantees absolute budgetary predictability for the World Federation of Neurology (WFN).

Absolute state support and logistical excellence

The nomination carries the highest institutional commitment, having been formally declared of Presidential Interest and Ministerial Interest (Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of Tourism). This sovereign endorsement ensures priority in customs procedures, coordinated public security, and comprehensive logistical facilitation.

Punta del Este offers convenient air connectivity through Carrasco International Airport (Montevideo) and Laguna del Sauce International Airport (Punta del Este), linking seamlessly with major international transit hubs. Its hotel capacity ranges from budget-friendly alternatives to five-star complexes adjacent to the event venue, complemented by dedicated official transportation and comprehensive universal accessibility certifications across venues and accommodations for people with motor and sensory disabilities.

Technological vanguard and community impact

The Punta del Este Convention Center, located in a 12-hectare natural environment just minutes from the sea, features a plenary auditorium for 2,600 attendees and a total capacity of 4,000 people. Its redundant corporate-grade fiber-optic connectivity infrastructure and specialized acoustic engineering ensure high-fidelity real-time hybrid transmissions for delegates from all over the planet. Likewise, in close harmony with the WFN's brain health objectives, the candidacy incorporates a pioneering component: the "Patient Event", a parallel summit specially designed for patients, caregivers, and families, extending the impact of the congress directly to the community.

Hospitality and cultural Heritage

Delegates will enjoy an enriching experience in an emblematic, world-renowned seaside resort: from sunsets at Casapueblo and the living traditions of tango and candombe—Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity—to regional gastronomy and tastings of Tannat wines in a privileged natural setting.

An invitation to the future of neurology

Choosing Uruguay means opting for certainty, organizational excellence, state support, ethical commitment, and human warmth. The Society of Neurology of Uruguay formally invites WFN delegates to trust Punta del Este and support Uruguay's candidacy for the World Congress of Neurology 2029 with their vote.

Dr. Carlos Bolaña
President
Neurological Society of Uruguay (SNU)
 
Mg. Dra. Beatriz Arciere
President of the XVIII Pan-American Congress of Neurology for Uruguay