Chile: Nationwide protest expected on March 11-22 /update 51

Event

Anti-government protesters are set to continue in Santiago and across Chile on Wednesday, March 11, amid President Sebastian Piñera's two-year anniversary as president. Gatherings are therefore to be expected across urban centers in Chile, certainly including Santiago, though also likely in Valparaiso and Maipu, among others.

There are a series of protests scheduled in the coming several days:

• Wednesday, March 11, to mark President Sebastian Piñera's two years as president; Santiago at 08:30 (local time) at Palacio de la Moneda.
• Friday, March 13, weekly Super Viernes gathering at Plaza Italia/Dignidad in Santiago.
• Sunday, March 15, nationwide climate march.
• Monday, March 16, Super Lunes gathering at Plaza Italia/Dignidad in Santiago.
• Wednesday, March 18, commemoration of five months of protests in Santiago.
• Friday, March 20, nationwide mobilization for the Mapuche community.
• Sunday, March 22, nationwide march.

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, 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.