Chile’s constitutional crossroads: 60% distrust the new draft

According to a recent survey conducted by the well-regarded Universidad Diego Portales in Chile, 60% of Chileans are inclined to vote against the proposed new constitution, set to be decided in a referendum on December 17.

The current constitution, originating from the era of Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship, underwent modifications in the democratic era.

The study highlighted a notable sentiment among participants, where many view the ongoing constitutional process as insufficient in addressing the nation’s challenges.

Younger individuals (ages 18-29) from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are particularly inclined to oppose the new draft, whereas those aged 50-59, possessing higher purchasing power and centrist or right-leaning ideologies, lean towards support.

Despite the majority’s inclination to reject the new proposal, there is a widespread desire for constitutional change.

Of the committee crafting the new constitutional draft, 22 seats are held by the far-right Partido Republicano (PR).

Many respondents feel the strong influence of its leader, José Antonio Kast, and business interests in the drafting process.

Conducted by Feedback Research from August 8-11, 2023, the online survey engaged 2,720 participants.

A significant portion, 74%, advocate for retaining the country’s current abortion regulations, which allow abortion under three conditions.

Meanwhile, 12% support banning abortion via the constitution, challenging the existing law, which has faced implementation hurdles since its introduction almost six years ago.

This is Chile’s second attempt in three years to formulate a new constitution.

The current draft is perceived as more moderate than its predecessor, and the conservatives hold a veto power.

hile’s existing constitution was ratified in 1980 amid Pinochet’s military rule.

Following 2019’s social unrest, a political agreement was announced for a new constitution, which failed to secure majority support.