Chile: Student protests in Santiago and Concepción April 25

Event

The Confederation of Students of Chile (CONFECh) and other associated student organizations will stage protest marches in Santiago and Concepción on Thursday, April 25, against student debt and gender bias in the education system. In Santiago, demonstrations will begin at 11:00 (local time) in Plaza Baguedano and will proceed via Avenida Libertador to the Los Héroes Metro station. In Concepción, demonstrations will begin at 12:00 at Universidad Catolica de la Santisima Concepcion, Universidad del Bio-Bio, and Plaza Peru and will converge on the intersection of Avenida Los Carrera and Paicaví street.

An increased security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely near all demonstrations. Violent clashes between protesters and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Context

Student protests have been relatively frequent throughout Chile in recent years due to rising tuition costs and perceived inequality in the higher education system. Student protests, especially in urban centers, frequently draw large crowds and see clashes between students and security personnel.

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.