Chile: Fresh protests scheduled in Santiago December 4, 6 /update 39

Event

Additional protests have been scheduled in Santiago for Wednesday, December 4, and Friday, December 6, amid the ongoing nationwide protest movement calling for improved social conditions that has affected the country for over six weeks. On Wednesday, participants will gather at Plaza de la Dignidad/Plaza Italia at 17:00 (local time). On Friday, participants will gather at Plaza de la Dignidad/Plaza Italia at 18:00 and later march to the Costanera commercial center. Related protests are possible in other parts of the city and in other urban centers on these dates.

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. Police have arrested 915 people as of November 26. 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.