Chile: Student protests in Santiago March 27

Event

At least 17 people were arrested in the capital city of Santiago on Tuesday, March 27, after large student protests took place following a controversial court decision. The constitutional court overturned a previous ruling that would have made it illegal for universities to operate for profit, a move supporters say would have helped lower tuition costs.

Further protests are possible in the coming days, particularly in Santiago. An increased security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all demonstrations. Violent clashes between protesters and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Context

Student-led protests demanding education reform have been recurrent in Chile for the past several years due to rising tuition costs. They often draw large crowds and are frequently marred by low-level violence. Former President Michele Bachelet introduced several educational reforms during her tenure, which resulted in a general calming of the situation. However, President Sebastián Piñera, in office since March 11, 2018, has sought to implement more business-friendly policies, which could lead to a resurgence of unrest by student groups.

Advice

Individuals in Chile, particularly in Santiago, are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution and to anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of protests.