Introduction: The agenda of health, gender equality, and sexual and reproductive rights constitutes a fundamental pillar for the well-being of contemporary societies. Subjective attitudes, gender norms, and sexual behaviors profoundly impact health and quality of life, making their understanding essential for researchers, decision-makers, and professionals. This global agenda encompasses diverse research topics, methodological approaches, and technical and professional intervention models.
Purpose: This study examines the role of psychology in shaping the public agenda on access to health and gender equality in Uruguay over the past 25 years.
Method: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews and focus groups with decision-makers, researchers, health professionals, civil society representatives, and United Nations technical staff. A documentary analysis was conducted as a complementary approach.
Results: Since 1999, the Psychology department at the Uruguayan public university has incorporated a transformative gender approach into its professional training, research and community interventions through the Gender, Sexuality and Reproductive Health Programme at the Institute of Health Psychology. The programme maintains strong regional and international ties with academic institutions and United Nations agencies. The interviewees recognise this academic programme as a key player in policies addressing gender equality, mental health, the prevention of unintended adolescent pregnancy, care for victims of sexual and gender-based violence, and the protection of minors in digital environments.
Conclusions: The consolidation of this academic space at the Universidad de la República has positioned Psychology both professionally and academically within intersectoral and interdisciplinary dialogue on health and well-being policies in Uruguay. This has enabled the provision of quality scientific evidence to inform citizens and the design and evaluation of public policy. This model demonstrates the importance of combining national academic expertise with international frameworks and partnerships to promote gender equality and public health agendas.