On 14 October 2019, mass protests took over Chile, prompt by a raise in the Santiago Metro's subway fare. The student-led demonstration quickly gained support from multiple social sectors, united against the increased cost of living and prevalent inequality in the country. More than 1 millon people rallied in Chilean cities. Although demonstrations have been allegedly tainted by looting and vandalism, they have predominantely remained peaceful.
The government of President Sebastian Piñera responded by declaring a state of emergency, deploying military forces on the streets and enforcing curfews. To date, the uprising has left at least five people dead at the hands of the armed forces, allegations of torture, and many arbitrary detentions.
Dip. Tucapel Jimenez, longstanding and prominent PGA Board Member, provides a critical look at the situation in the country, its causes, the ways towards a lasting solution and the role of parliamentarians in this process.
