Chile: Further nationwide protests called November 27 – December 1 /update 36

Event

Various trade unions have called for additional nationwide protests everyday in Santiago from Wednesday, November 27, through Sunday, December 1. On November 27, protesters will gather at Plaza Dignidad/Plaza Italia as of 17:00 (local time) and march to Palacio de la Moneda. On November 28, protesters will gather at the Tobalaba-Costanera center at 17:00. On November 29, protesters are holding a "Super Viernes" protest, with the main gathering in Santiago will be at Plaza Dignidad/Plaza Italia as of 17:00. Then, on November 30, a nationwide protest has been called, with the largest protests likely in Santiago. Finally, on December 1, a cyclists' protests will take place to call for President Piñera's resignation. That will take place as of 17:00 at Plaza Dignidad/Plaza Italia. 

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected at all demonstrations. Clashes between demonstrators and police officers cannot be ruled out. 

Context

President Sebastián Piñera announced on November 17 that the government will allow citizens to vote on a new constitution and that it is willing to consider raising pensions by more than 20 percent. An agreement reached by politicians on November 15 will organize a referendum in April 2020, where Chileans will vote whether to replace the current charter of rights (magna carta) from Pinochet's dictatorship and a new legislative assembly.

At least 24 people have reportedly been killed and another 2800 wounded since the start of the protests on October 6. Demonstrations broke out after the Chilean government announced an increase in metro and bus fares. The mass protests escalated in Santiago and other cities over the following days to denounce high costs of living, rising electricity prices, the privatization of water, and other social issues. Security forces have been accused of using excessive force and other human rights violations while dealing with the unrest. Health sector employees protested on November 21, to call attention to the use of violence among police officers. They marched to Palacio de Tribunales to file an appeal that requires police to adhere to certain protocols and refrain from assaulting health employees and volunteers during protests.

Advice

Individuals in Chile, particularly in Santiago, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.