Chile’s Social Unrest

by Kristiane Simmons ‘20, Senior Writer

Chile’s economy has been lauded as one of the best in South America. Many governments and publications have praised their booming growth. This has been achieved after years of repression stemming from the dictatorship of Pinochet. That’s why it was a shock for the international community to witness Chilean citizens protesting against the economic model that was used to accomplish this success. It all started with college students in Santiago dodging the fare meters for the subway. President Sebastian Pinera called on the military to control the situation. This move caused protests across the country to erupt.

Decades of frustration was expressed on October 18 as the people took to the streets. Underneath the expansion of large businesses and an increase in wealth, the majority of people have not been able to benefit. Government officials added to the problem with insensitive remarks and actions. Ordering the military to police the streets and creating curfews were the final straw. This was the first time since the Dictator Pinochet was in power for the government to use these options to repress the protesters. The military is able to use guns, and other weapons to attack anyone outside during the curfew hours. The detaining of protesters is legal as well.

Armed military personnel stood at the front of supermarkets during the daytime. Their presence was a chilling reminder of Chile’s violent past. Adding to the fear were the words chosen by President Pinera. He stated that the government was at war against an enemy willing to do anything to achieve their aims. His choice to dine at a pizzeria as the people chose to take to the streets added insult to injury. All of these actions united the Chilean people.

Cacerolazos made their voices heard without leaving their homes. Chile started the tradition of using cooking utensils in 1971 during Salvador Allende’s administration. It was used as a way to express their unhappiness with the administration during curfew hours. People who participate in the practice are called Calcerolazos. The custom has spread all over South America. Their beating of pots rang through the night all over the country. Social media was an added tool for protesters in Chile.

Individuals documented every event to show their side of the story. Videos, memes, and photos uploaded to Instagram showed information not shared on television networks. There was footage showing the military using the Santiago subway station as a location for torture. Evidence of military personnel abusing their power, and making the protesters appear violent was shared as well. It was also a way to communicate with loved ones to ensure they were safe during this dangerous time. Chile’s move toward democracy and economic prosperity is now mired in unease.

The Asian Pacific Economic Forum will not be held in Chile because of social unrest. Concepcion’s mall is still not open, and classes are starting again at Universidad Catolica de la Santismia Concepcion on November 4. The country is still reeling from the events that have transpired. Emotions are tense as businesses try to open back up. Protests are continuing after a million people marched in Santiago on October 26. Only time will tell if the government will truly work for the majority of the Chilean people instead of the elite.