Continuing violent protests.
The wave of demonstrations and violence that has rocked Santiago and most other Chilean cities over the past few days, shocking Chileans themselves, is essentially a protest against the “1%”, in other words the political and business elite. However, this does not mean, at least for now, that Chileans want a radical change in the predominantly neoliberal economic model, but rather a fairer share of its proceeds and opportunities.
Repair of some sections of the Metro could take months, to the detriment of mostly lower-middle-class neighbourhoods of Santiago.
The disruption of activity will pull down growth this year, which was already expected to drop to around 2.5% from 4.0% in 2018.
Growing reports of police and army brutality and violations of the law are further polarising the situation.
For the rest of its term the government will be at the mercy of events and will have to negotiate agreements with the opposition.
