Chile: Fresh nationwide protests, strike called December 11, 12 /update 42

Event

Another protest is scheduled to take place in Santiago on Wednesday, December 11, at the Tobalaba metro station as of 17:00 (local time). Further, a nationwide strike has been called for Thursday, December 12, starting at 06:30. Gatherings are therefore to be expected across urban centers in Chile on Thursday, as well as disruptions to business and transportation.

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 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, 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.