Chile: Protesters clash with police in Santiago November 18 /update 31

Event

Demonstrators took to the streets in Santiago on Monday, November 18, despite recent concessions offered by the government. An estimated 3000 people gathered in Plaza Italia to demand broader reforms and constitutional changes. In some areas, protesters threw rocks and petrol bombs at police officers, who responded with tear gas and rubber bullets.

Additional protests, including spontaneous ones, are anticipated in Santiago and other major urban areas across the country over the near term. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected at all demonstrations. Further 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 2000 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.

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.