On 1 October 2026, the Confederation of Students of Chile (Confech) called for a national strike and march in Santiago and regions, within the framework of the discussion of the 2027 Budget Law and in rejection of potential cuts to public education. The mobilization had the support of the Unitary Workers’ Central (CUT), the College of Teachers, secondary students, the Feminist Coordinator 8M, and other unions. In Santiago, the march started from Plaza Baquedano and proceeded along the Alameda with authorization from the Metropolitan Presidential Delegation. According to Carabineros, it gathered around six thousand people. During the day, incidents were recorded between protesters and Carabineros, with the use of water cannons and tear gas, and a preliminary balance of 17 detainees. In parallel, a group of hooded protesters assaulted students from the Pontifical Catholic University who were demonstrating against the march, leaving at least two students treated in health centers. The president of the College of Teachers denounced “brutal repression” and “pure fascism” by Carabineros (national police).
