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25 Oct 2019 | 09:07 AM UTC

Chile: Further nationwide protests planned October 25 /update 13

Civil groups call for additional nationwide protests amid indefinite strike on October 25; avoid all protests

Warning

Event

The Workers' United Center of Chile (CUT) union is calling for another demonstration in the capital Santiago on Friday, October 25, for the eighth consecutive day of protests. Participants are expected to gather at Plaza Los Héroes starting at 12:00 (local time) and will later march to Plaza Italia at 17:00. In addition, the CUT has also called for protests in every square of the country as of 17:00, potentially driving thousands more to protest in other cities. Associated demonstrations may therefore take place in other major urban areas including Valparaíso, Concepción, La Serena, and Curicó. Over 20,000 soldiers have been deployed to maintain order, particularly in the capital Santiago.

On Thursday, October 24, clashes were reported between police and protesters. Police also used tear gas, water cannons, and violence to disperse crowds at protests in Santiago and other parts of the country. Protests are likely to continue on Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, though information is not immediately available on specific plans. Another curfew was also implemented on Thursday, for the sixth consecutive day. A heightened security presence is to be expected in the coming hours and days across Santiago and other major urban areas. Further protests are likely - particularly in and around the capital. Further clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out. 

Airlines operating out of Santiago International Airport (SCL), including LATAM and Sky Airlines, announced on Thursday that flights are operating regularly. Residual disruptions from previously canceled flights earlier in the week may continue in the coming days. 

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the coming hours and days across Santiago and other major urban areas. Further protests are likely - particularly in and around the capital. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Demonstrations began on October 6 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. According to the Chilean National Institute of Human Rights, 2840 people have been arrested and 582 have been injured in the protests. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) indicates that at least 18 people have been killed. The United Nations announced it would send a mission to Chile in order to investigate claims of human rights abuses during the wave of 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.

Travelers flying via SCL are advised to confirm flight reservations prior to leaving for the airport and to contact their airline for additional information.