Chile: Additional protests planned in Santiago December 6, 8 /update 40

Event

Several groups have called for protests on Friday, December 6, in Santiago, as part of the ongoing nationwide protest movement demanding improved social conditions. One group is calling on protesters to gather at Plaza de la Dignidad/Plaza Italia at 17:00 (local time). Another group plans to march from Plaza de la Dignidad/Plaza Italia to the Costanera commercial center at 18:00. Related protests are possible in other parts of the city and in other urban centers on these dates.

Also on Friday, the Alakalle collective has called for protesters to gather at 20:30 in Santiago's Yungay neighborhood, at 2950 Huerfanos. They have also called for a protest at the same location on Sunday, December 8, as of 19:45.

A heightened security presence, as well as transportation and business disruptions are expected near 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 he 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 26 people have reportedly been killed and another 13,500 wounded since the start of the protests on October 6. Police have arrested 915 people as of November 26. 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.