Austerity protests escalate in Chile; students clash with police, 25 injured

Thousands of students took to the streets in Chile to protest austerity measures, resulting in clashes with police and 25 people injured, including 12 officers. The demonstrations, organized by the Chilean Student Confederation (CONFECH), occurred in the capital, Santiago.

Protesters hurled stones and wielded sticks, causing damage to the surrounding area. The government of President Jose Antonio Kast, which began its term on March 11, promised to cut approximately $6 billion in spending over 18 months to improve public finances. As part of this plan, Kast ordered the implementation of a "comprehensive austerity plan" involving about a 3% cut in ministry budgets.

Students, teachers, and unions argue that the Kast government's austerity program disproportionately affects the education sector. They contend that these cuts will reduce financial resources for schools and universities, potentially impacting the quality of educational services. The CONFECH warned of larger-scale actions if the government does not change course, highlighting the growing discontent over the economic policies.

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We will organize larger-scale actions in the future, warning the Kast government.