Chile Security Reform Could Backfire on Government, Analyst Warns

Claudio Arqueros, director of Training at the Jaime Guzmán Foundation, has cautioned that the Chilean government's proposed constitutional reform on security matters could ultimately harm its own interests. Arqueros pointed to specific measures within the reform that he believes could lead to restrictions on rights and grant excessive new powers to the government.

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I believe that what the public is asking for are more effective solutions, and those lie in the realm of management.

He shares the reservations expressed by Guillermo Ramírez, president of the UDI party, who stated that his party cannot support the modifications in their current form because they weaken institutional frameworks. Arqueros noted that while the exact text of the reform remains unknown, circulating drafts have already raised significant concerns. He highlighted that even Minister Arrau acknowledged some of these apprehensions raised by Minister Tohá, suggesting internal government uncertainty about the proposal.

Arqueros argued that the debate extends beyond the specific content of the reform, reopening the discussion on whether constitutional amendments are the appropriate vehicle for security measures. He recalled Chile's recent rejection of two previous constitutional projects, suggesting that citizens are primarily seeking effective, management-based solutions rather than further constitutional wrangling. "I believe that what the public is asking for are more effective solutions, and those lie in the realm of management," he stated.

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In my opinion, the parliamentary discussion should rather be on the level of bills, not the Constitution.

While acknowledging some positive actions by the Executive branch, Arqueros opposes revisiting the constitution to advance its security agenda. He believes parliamentary discussions should focus on specific bills rather than constitutional amendments. "In my opinion, the parliamentary discussion should rather be on the level of bills, not the Constitution," he asserted. Arqueros warned that creating exceptions to the constitution's general principles could set a dangerous precedent for future governments to alter other public policies. He also cautioned about the potential political cost for the government, suggesting the reform could fuel perceptions of an authoritarian administration, particularly given the risks to certain rights and freedoms.

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Then I believe that even from a strategic point of view, this is an issue that can backfire on the Government.