Chile: Piñera presents anti abuse agenda as groups call for further protests December 10 /update 41

Event

President Piñera announced on Monday, December 9, a new agenda to try to combat abuse in an effort to appeal to protesters. The agenda includes three points: correct market monopolization, improve protection of consumer rights, and better protect workers' rights. The President also addressed police abuses and called on all to combat the crimes committed by criminals during peaceful protests. An online platform is said to be the method of execution for the agenda's implementation, called the SERNAC. It is unclear if the announcement will quell protests.

A protest has been scheduled in Santiago for Tuesday, December 10, as of 17:00 (local time) at Plaza de la Dignidad/Plaza Italia. Participants will march at 18:00 to the Costanera commercial center.

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. 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.