Event Summary
Chile has entered a pivotal electoral period, with presidential primaries underway ahead of the general elections in November 2025. The political context is marked by the emergence of prominent candidates from both ends of the political spectrum, highlighting growing polarisation. This electoral cycle is also the first under the 2022 mandatory voting reform, which is expected to reshape turnout and voter engagement.
President Gabriel Boric’s administration, now entering its final stretch, has announced a mix of legislative initiatives, policy measures, and political positions -ranging from addressing the public security crisis and promoting social protections, to initiating debate on legal abortion, condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza, and proposing the transformation of Punta Peuco into a regular prison – aiming to consolidate its reformist agenda before handing over power in March 2026.
The convergence of an active primary season, the closing phase of a reform-driven government, and the backdrop of institutional changes positions Chile at a key turning point. This evolving context must be closely monitored, as it carries both risks and opportunities for Chile’s enabling environment. On one hand, the process is taking place within strong democratic institutions and encourages civic debate, pluralism, and electoral participation. However, the increasing visibility of polarised narratives and digital misinformation poses risks to public trust, social cohesion, and inclusive political discourse.
At the same time, this is also a moment of strategic opportunity. Civil society actors can engage in shaping political agendas, advocating for rights-based policies, and fostering inclusive debates on democracy, governance, and social justice. While the direction of these developments remains uncertain, the months ahead are critical for leveraging this pivotal transition to strengthen civil society participation.