Chile: Protests scheduled in Valparaiso January 28, 31 /update 48

Event

Online sources have indicated that protests have been called in Valparaiso on Tuesday, January 28, and Friday, January 31. On Tuesday, participants are expected to gather at the intersection of San Ignacio and Avenue Brazil at 08:30 (local time). On Friday, participants will gather at Plaza Sotomayor as of 20:00.

Protests in Santiago are also likely on Friday, with possible meeting points at Plaza de la Dignidad and Plaza de la Aviacion. Related gatherings are possible in other urban centers across Chile.

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

Demonstrations broke out in October 2019 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. 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.

Advice

Individuals in Chile, particularly in Santiago and Valparaiso, 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.