📰 CIPER Chile · 56
CLCrib room: an important step, but ...
The article discusses a proposed law on 'sala cuna' (nursery care) introduced by the Chilean government. It acknowledges the initiative as an important step forward, addressing historical distortions that linked the cost of this benefit solely to women's employment. The article also notes that the proposal resolves the discussion around the compensatory bonus for nursery care, which had become a widespread but legally unclear practice. However, it points out that the current design excludes direct contributions from employers, despite the benefits that nursery care provides to both familiesand
Conduct that conspires against transparency: Tricel ratifies total rejection of campaign expenses to GORE by Macarena Santelices
The Electoral Qualification Court (Tricel) confirmed its rejection of the campaign expenses submitted by Macarena Santelices, now a congresswoman, during her run for the Metropolitan Government Region (GORE) election in 2024. The rejection was partly due to her request for reimbursement of a $160 million invoice issued by the company of Felipe 'El Yeti' Costabal, who is currently head of the Secretariat of Communication (Secom) and previously managed campaigns for José Antonio Kast. The company canceled the invoice with the Internal Revenue Service (SII) the day after the election. Tricel has稱
VIP advisors: 17 deputies have been compensated so many times by the Chamber that they have already exceeded the legal ceiling of 11 years
The article reports that 17 advisors to members of the Chamber of Deputies in Chile have been compensated multiple times through severance payments by the Chamber, allowing them to accumulate more than the legally mandated maximum of 11 years under the Labor Code. This practice is enabled by a special regulation approved in 2009. The Chamber of Deputies stated it cannot provide records prior to 2012 because those contracts were managed directly by legislators at the time. However, some advisors confirmed they have accumulated severances totaling up to 32, 24, and 19 years when including pre-20
When the Infrastructure Forgets the Children
The article discusses concerns over urban infrastructure planning in Chile, specifically focusing on the impact of the AVO II project on student safety near schools in La Reina. It highlights the daily routine of students commuting to school and raises questions about whether city design prioritizes the needs of children. The piece expresses worry that the proposed infrastructure changes could reduce the already precarious safety conditions for over 2,000 students who use this area regularly.
Why does Chile have one of the lowest fertility rates in the world?
The article discusses Chile's extremely low fertility rate, currently at approximately 0.99 children per woman, which is among the lowest globally. It attributes this decline to a combination of economic, labor-related, cultural, and gender factors. The author suggests solutions such as improving housing access, strengthening childcare systems, expanding nursery coverage, promoting shared parenting responsibilities, and creating work conditions compatible with family life. The article highlights the significance of this issue, especially considering Chile's status as a developing country.
7.2% more than last year: more than 34 thousand registered people submit PAES for Winter 2026
The winter 2026 PAES (Prueba de Acceso a la Educación Superior) began with over 34,324 participants, an increase of 7.2% compared to the previous year. The test takes place in 49 locations across Chile and is open only to those who have completed secondary education. Officials highlighted the importance of the exam in providing flexibility to the university admissions system and reducing anxiety among participants. Of the registered candidates, 60.8% graduated last year, while 39.2% graduated in previous years. Additionally, 72.85% took the regular PAES in December 2025 and are now retaking at
Central Bank lowers growth projection for 2026; Migration chief points to previous government over Haitian child cases, and formalizes Republican councilwoman for theft
The article summarizes key news events from June 17, 2026, including the Central Bank's revised economic projections for 2026, which show lower growth and higher inflation than previously expected. It also mentions the head of Migration blaming the previous government for cases involving Haitian children entering the country. Additionally, a Republican councilwoman was formally charged with theft after attending a national meeting in Coquimbo. Other highlights include Minister Poduje announcing 14 evictions of land occupations nationwide.
Lawsuit against the German Clinic: transplanted patient lived with a necrotic kidney for five months
A patient who underwent a kidney transplant at Clínica Alemana in Santiago has filed a legal complaint against the clinic, alleging that they lived with a necrotic kidney for five months after it was diagnosed with arterial thrombosis and extensive necrosis. According to the lawsuit, the kidney was not removed until April 2025, causing severe physical damage and a strong immune response, leaving the patient with only a 2% chance of successfully receiving another transplant. The donor had COVID-19, according to CIPER.
Between 2024 and 2026: House paid $2.4 billion in damages to 489 parliamentary advisers and then rehired them
The article reports that between 2024 and 2026, the Chilean Chamber of Deputies paid out $2.4 million in severance packages to 489 advisors who were later rehired. This practice has been in place since 2012 under a special labor regulation allowing the dismissal and compensation of parliamentary advisors at the end of each four-year legislative period, followed by their reemployment. In the most recent period (2022–2026), the Chamber paid $5.7 million in total severances to 1,336 advisors, with 489 being rehired. In the Senate, 218 advisors received severance payments, and 23 were rehired.
The shirt that embarrassed FIFA
The article discusses the controversy surrounding Haiti's football team jersey design, which included imagery related to the Battle of Vertieres in 1803—a pivotal event in Haiti's fight for independence. The FIFA banned this symbol, citing it as 'too political.' The author argues that this historical reference is central to Haiti's national identity and criticizes FIFA for suppressing it during a global platform like the World Cup.
Water bankruptcy: when drought is no longer the problem
The article discusses the concept of 'hidrobankruptcy' introduced by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health. It explains that hidrobankruptcy occurs when a society consumes more water than it receives annually through precipitation or natural recharge, and also begins to deplete ancient water reserves stored in aquifers, glaciers, wetlands, and lakes. This leads to permanent water scarcity rather than temporary shortages. The article highlights that nearly 75% of the world's population lives in countries with scarce or insecure water supplies, and notes that,
The deputies behave very badly...
The article describes an observation made by a teacher who took students to the Chilean Congress on June 10, 2026, during a debate on removing mandatory rest days during elections. The author notes that only a third of the seats were occupied, with many legislators scrolling on their phones or engaging in unrelated activities. The discussion was described as disjointed, with varying levels of preparation among participants. Students reportedly commented on the poor behavior of the deputies, comparing the scene to a school council rather than a democratic deliberation.
Journalist Mónica González is recognized as a global hero of press freedom
Mónica González, founder of CIPER, was recognized by the International Press Institute (IPI) as a 'world hero of press freedom.' She was honored alongside a journalist from the Philippines and a group of Hungarian reporters. The IPI highlighted her investigative journalism exposing corruption, atrocities, and human rights violations under the Pinochet regime in Chile. González has faced imprisonment, exile, and legal proceedings due to her work.
Government confirms Sala Cuna project will impact Cesantía Insurance funds; Supreme opens removal notebook to 56 judges who traveled with license and Nicolás Grau's defense ensures there are no violations of norms or laws in the constitutional accusation
The Chilean government has confirmed that the proposed 'Sala Cuna Universal' program will affect funds from the Unemployment Insurance (Seguro de Cesantía). Minister of Labor and Social Security Tomás Rau stated that there will be a reduction in contributions to individual unemployment insurance accounts and the Solidary Unemployment Fund. The initiative involves a 0.35% employer contribution, offset by a similar reduction in their contributions to the unemployment insurance system. The funding for the project will come from the state and workers, with the state contributing approximately $10,
Prostate cancer in Chile: the urgency of breaking taboos, decentralising health and closing the therapeutic gap
The article discusses the urgent need to address prostate cancer in Chile, highlighting the high mortality rate despite a high cure rate if detected early. It points out that prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in Chile, affecting nearly one-third of male cancer patients. The article attributes the delayed detection and treatment to barriers in access, centralized healthcare systems, and fragmented funding. It calls for breaking down taboos around the disease, decentralizing healthcare, and reducing therapeutic gaps.
Kast proposes a universal cradle room financed in part with money going to the bottom of cesantia; Contraloría reveals that 146 thousand circulation permits were delivered despite unpaid fines, and prosecutors ask for the annulment of Claudio Crespo's trial
The article summarizes key news items from June 15, 2026, including President Sebastián Piñera's (Kast) approval of funding for the 'Sala Cuna Universal' program using workers' unemployment insurance funds, the Contraloría's finding that 146,000 vehicle circulation permits were issued despite unpaid fines, and a legal challenge seeking to annul the acquittal of Claudio Crespo in the Gatica case. Other highlights include the UAF sending documents to the national prosecutor regarding operations linked to the Tren de Aragua network and the Santander executive, and updates on changes to fishing法规.
Electricity bills: all with your money
The author of this column analyzes the effects of electricity tariff freezes and accumulated debts within the electrical system, questioning the formulas used by the Government to address outstanding balances with distributors. The piece argues that the discussion should not only focus on how to finance these amounts but also ensure citizens understand how much they owe, how these charges are calculated, and who benefits from regulatory decisions. It concludes with a call for transparency from those involved in legislation, regardless of the executive branch's proposals.
The sword of Damocles in health
The article discusses the challenges faced by the healthcare sector in Chile, highlighting both achievements and ongoing struggles. It emphasizes the complexity of maintaining high health standards despite resource limitations and mentions the impact of new budget adjustments on healthcare professionals. The author notes the pressure on local authorities to meet performance metrics while also acknowledging the strain on healthcare workers, including risks such as burnout.
Tax integration: the underlying debate in the mega-reform
The article discusses the debate surrounding the proposed tax integration in Chile's megareform. It argues that the discussion goes beyond investment and revenue collection, focusing instead on who should bear the burden of common expenses. The author suggests that corporate taxes should be separate from those paid by property owners, aligning with how workers pay taxes, thus equalizing treatment between capital and labor income. However, the author cautions against the potential costs associated with full tax integration.
Winter vacation: when the territory doesn't fit into the school calendar
The article discusses the winter school vacation calendar in Chile, highlighting concerns about the uniformity of the schedule across a country with diverse climates and geography. It critiques the decision to move winter break earlier in the year under the premise of reducing respiratory infections among children, arguing that this approach overlooks local climate conditions, connectivity, and infrastructure.
Older adults with dementia and justice: a gap Chile must close
The article discusses the issue of dementia among older adults and the justice system in Chile, highlighting a gap that needs to be addressed.
The demographic trap
The article discusses Chile's demographic challenges, focusing on the gap between the desired number of children (2.4) and the actual average (1.7). It highlights that the main reason for not having more children is the high cost of raising them, which reflects both financial concerns and changing expectations about well-being. The article emphasizes that family is still highly valued in Chile, but the financial burden of raising children is seen as incompatible with the lifestyle many people aspire to.
Sexual justice: an urgent task in times of setback
The article discusses the urgent need for sexual justice, highlighting it as a critical issue amidst regression.
How organized crime is using cryptocurrency platforms in asset laundering
The article discusses how organized crime groups in Chile are using cryptocurrency platforms for money laundering. It references Operation Tokyo, which uncovered individuals linked to financial institutions like BancoEstado and Santander. The investigation revealed approximately $75 million laundered between 2022 and 2025 through various crimes such as extortion, drug trafficking, prostitution, phone scams, and vehicle smuggling. The funds were moved through bank accounts before being converted into cryptocurrencies for international operations. Platforms like Orionx and Koywe were used, with
The 90 Days of Kast
The article's title refers to 'Los 90 días de Kast,' which likely discusses the first 90 days of Sebastián Piñera's presidency, though the provided text does not include specific details.
Open letter to President Kast: prudence advising a historical view on the protection of indigenous lands
An open letter addressed to President Gabriel Boric (Kast) discusses the importance of historical perspective in protecting indigenous lands.
After the withdrawal of the new Fisheries Law: the changes that the officialist wants and could give continuity to the Ley Longueira
The article discusses changes proposed by the ruling party regarding the new Fishing Law after its withdrawal, potentially continuing aspects of the 'Longueira Law'.
♪ ♪ The 90 days of Kast ♪
The article highlights content related to 'Los 90 días de Kast,' which appears to be an analysis or discussion of the first 90 days of Sebastián Piñera's presidency, likely focusing on his policies and actions during this period.
Public statement by the National Association of Officials of the Subsecretariat for Regional and Administrative Development
The article references a public declaration by the National Association of Officials from the Subsecretariat of Regional Development and Administrative Affairs.
Leonardo Cáceres and the true story of the rescue of Salvador Allende's last speech
The article discusses Leonardo Cáceres and the true history behind the rescue of Salvador Allende's last speech.
Cutting mental health is cutting the future
The headline 'Cutting mental health is cutting the future' was published by CIPER Chile.
President signs bill that sanctions parents for crimes of children; government supports motion to appoint 57 notaries according to old law, and admits complaint against former governor of Araucanía
The article summarizes key news events from June 11, 2026, including the president signing a bill that holds parents accountable for their children's crimes, the government pushing to appoint 57 notaries under an old law, and the admission of charges against former governor Luciano Rivas of La Araucanía. Other highlights include the Contraloría halting the Uber Law regulation due to lack of technical justification.
World Cup 2026 is over: party is no longer for everyone
The article discusses controversies surrounding the 2026 World Cup hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It highlights the U.S. government's rejection of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan due to his social media connections with individuals deemed dangerous by the U.S. authorities. The article also mentions reports of mistreatment and harassment affecting certain national teams, such as Iraq and Iran. The author criticizes FIFA for its lack of response to these issues, suggesting that the organization has become a multinational entity driven by financial interests rather than the
Digital protection for children starts with design, not prohibition
The article discusses the importance of designing digital platforms with child safety in mind rather than relying solely on restrictions.
Statement by the Ministry of Health on the reporting on the winter campaign and response of CIPER
CIPER Chile responds to a statement by the Ministry of Health regarding an article published by CIPER titled 'Health: Municipalities warn of complications in the winter campaign due to cuts and delays in resource transfers.' The article highlights concerns raised by several municipalities about two factors affecting the Winter Campaign: a reduction in funding for Primary Healthcare by the Ministry of Finance and delayed transfers of resources to certain municipalities.
Government admits it will not keep its promise of 4% growth; approval of Kast is 34% according to CEP Survey, and arrest five gendarmes for drug trafficking
The Chilean government has acknowledged it will not meet its promise of achieving 4% economic growth by the end of its term. According to a CEP survey, President Sebastián Piñera (Kast) has an approval rating of 34%, with 52% disapproval. Five gendarmermen were arrested in connection with drug trafficking. The Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating Ambassador Gabriel Zaliasnik for ties to Luis Hermosilla. Other notable developments include the University of Chile's Anti-Fraud Unit sending documents to the national prosecutor regarding operations linked to the Tren de Aragua network and a
Health: municipalities warn of complications in the winter campaign due to cuts and delays in resource transfers
At least seven municipalities in Chile, including six in the Metropolitan Region and one in Los Ríos, have reported to CIPER that the Winter Campaign 2026 is being affected by delays in the delivery of resources and budget cuts in the Health sector. The Ministry of Finance has reduced funding for Primary Care (municipal clinics) nationwide by $18.8 billion. According to local authorities, this has already caused issues such as reduced nighttime service hours in La Pintana and decreased vaccination capacity in schools in Lo Espejo. Other communes, including Valdivia, Quilicura, and Recoleta,报告称
A new state with old rules: lights and shadows of state modernization in the first public account
The first Public Account of President Kast outlines an ambitious agenda for state modernization based on austerity, expenditure control, and digitization. However, the authors caution that several announced reforms remain mere intentions and that there remains unresolved tension between reducing the size of the state and strengthening its capabilities. They argue that if these announcements are to become concrete public policies, the executive must demonstrate with verifiable evidence and results that it is possible to increase efficiency and quality of public services without introducing实质性修改
UAF sent documents to the national prosecutor alerting about operations of the Aragua Tren network and about the Santander executive
The Unidad de Análisis Financiero (UAF) sent at least four documents to the national prosecutor, Ángel Valencia, between April 2024 and May 2026, detailing multiple Suspicious Transaction Reports (ROS) issued by banks regarding financial activities linked to the Tren de Aragua network. These reports highlighted suspicious money movements associated with the network, which was recently dismantled. One document was dated two months before the quintuple homicide in Lampa, which initiated the investigation leading to the discovery of this structure. The article also mentions that the UAF informed,
Gambling houses: the state's debt to adolescent mental health
The article discusses the legal status of betting houses in Chile and argues that they pose a threat to the mental health and development of children and adolescents. It references neuroscience evidence to claim that these establishments are systematically affecting the neural architecture of an entire generation through dopamine-based manipulation. The author calls for urgent action by the state to protect youth mental health.
Megarreforma: CFA reiterates warnings and Quiroz says they look at it the same way as other experts
The Autonomous Fiscal Council (CFA) reiterated its warnings regarding the fiscal effects of Chile's megareform under President Kast. The CFA emphasized that the reform could lead to fiscal deficits at least until 2031, despite projected surpluses in the long term. The council recommended achieving a balanced Structural Budget through measures such as increased economic growth, new tax revenues, efficiency gains, spending adjustments, and reduced tax evasion. The CFA presented these concerns before the Senate's Finance Committee.
The Commission has also adopted a number of measures to ensure that the Commission's proposals are implemented in a manner consistent with the objectives of the programme.
The Society of International Researchers of Chile (SICH) expresses concern over the Minister of Finance, Jorge Quiroz's, statements estimating a potential debt of up to $150 million from beneficiaries of Chilean scholarships, labeling them as 'social fraud.' SICH criticizes reducing a public policy debate to economic persecution and criminalizing individuals selected, trained, and internationally promoted by the state. They argue that conflating an issue of compensation design with illegal activity is unfair to researchers contributing to the country and undermines necessary discussions. SICH唿
Science must be a state policy (the missing commitment)
The article discusses the need for science to be considered a national policy in Chile, emphasizing the lack of sustained investment in research and development (I+D). The author notes that Chile's investment in I+D has remained stagnant at less than 0.4% of GDP for three decades, far below the OECD average of 3%. While acknowledging the excellence of Chilean university research, the article argues that this does not automatically translate into innovation and productivity without proper support and integration with societal needs.
Vandales Register: rewarding privilege, punishing vulnerability
The article discusses two current public debates in Chile: the potential return of merit-based academic selection in certain educational institutions and the proposal to create a National Vandal Register that could restrict access to social benefits for those involved in violent acts. The author argues that both issues rest on a shared moral intuition—that individuals should receive opportunities or sanctions based on their merits and decisions. The piece questions whether the key issue is how to reward success or punish failure, but ultimately emphasizes the need to build institutions that提供公
Food safety: Chile's debt to those less likely to choose
The article discusses food safety issues in Chile, highlighting that many people eat outside their homes due to necessity rather than choice. It mentions that in 2024, the Ministry of Health detected 1,525 cases of foodborne illness outbreaks, with four out of ten occurring outside the home. The article emphasizes the need for concrete solutions based on evidence to protect public health, referencing the World Health Organization's theme for World Food Safety Day.
Disproportionate compensation
The author recounts their experience with Euroinmobiliaria, a real estate company, after participating in an investment class led by financial influencer Romi Capetillo. The author claims they were misled into signing a purchase commitment through aggressive marketing tactics, which did not deliver promised benefits. After being laid off, the author attempted to cancel the contract due to force majeure but faced attempts by the company to impose excessive penalties.
Civil Registry delivered by mistake for six months between 2024 and 2025 certificates with permanent residence to migrants who did not meet requirements
Between December 2024 and May 2025, the Chilean Civil Registry mistakenly issued identity cards with permanent residency status to individuals who were asylum seekers and only had temporary authorization to stay in the country. The issue was alerted by former National Migration Service director Luis Thayer, who sent warnings to both the Civil Registry and the Undersecretary of Justice. The Civil Registry confirmed an incident occurred but did not disclose the exact number of incorrect documents due to security concerns. They provided a list of '14,000 inconsistencies' detected, though this may
Aragua Train is infiltrating the banks
The article discusses concerns about organized crime infiltrating banks in Chile, with comments from readers expressing views on corporate control and government corruption.
The myth of Chilean cinema without spectators
The author challenges the notion that Chilean cinema only gains recognition abroad, highlighting the role of independent theaters, festivals, and public programs in building audiences. The article discusses Chile's recent presence at the Cannes Film Festival, noting that the future of Chilean cinema depends on both international successes and maintaining local spaces that connect it with communities.
Colombia: Do I turn to the Right or vote for disappointment?
The article analyzes the results of the first round of the Colombian presidential election, noting that opposition candidate Abelardo De la Espriella narrowly defeated the incumbent government's candidate, Iván Cepeda Castro. The author suggests that while this result could indicate a shift toward the right, it also reflects growing public discontent with the current leftist government led by Gustavo Petro. The second-round vote may determine both the next president and the future of Petro's political project.
The SLEP: a reform that deserves analysis, not caricatures
The article discusses the implementation challenges of the Local Public Education Services (SLEP) in Chile, acknowledging difficulties in some regions like Atacama but arguing that these issues should not overshadow the broader structural reforms aimed at professionalizing education management. The author emphasizes the need for historical and institutional perspective when evaluating the reform, noting that major institutional changes typically require time to show full results.
Craftsmanship fishing is also supported by women's work
The article discusses the growing role of women in artisanal fishing in Chile, highlighting their increased participation by 22% over the past five years. It calls for urgent regulatory changes to align with gender-focused legislation from 2024, emphasizing infrastructure, equality plans, organizational parity, and benefits for caregivers. The author criticizes recent public accounts for omitting progress made in supporting women in this sector.
Craft Jibia: the competitive advantage Chile cannot lose
The article discusses the transformation of the Chilean crab industry over the past 20 years, highlighting its shift from being considered a pest to becoming the seventh most important fishery in the country. In 2025, nearly 80 companies exported over 70,000 tons of processed crabs, generating more than $260 million in revenue and providing employment for over 8,000 fishermen. However, challenges such as falling international prices, rising fuel costs, and bottlenecks in processing plants threaten the sector's stability. The 2019 'Jibia Law' introduced sustainable fishing methods like handline
Hacienda prepares proposal on bank secrecy; ask for inhabilitation for public posts of former mayor of Las Condes, and began seizure of assets of CAE debtors
The Ministry of Finance in Chile, led by Minister Jorge Quiroz, has begun developing a proposal regarding bank secrecy. This comes amid ongoing debates about lifting bank secrecy as a tool to combat organized crime. During President Gabriel Boric's administration, efforts were made to expand state capabilities to track criminal funds, but these faced opposition from the right and failed in Congress. Recently, a network allegedly involved in laundering over $70 million linked to the Tren de Aragua was dismantled, with a Venezuelan executive from Banco Santander reportedly among its members.
The Financial Intelligence Act
The article discusses the need for Chile to approve the Financial Intelligence Law to address challenges posed by illicit financial operations, including cryptocurrency transactions and shell companies. It highlights the importance of strengthening the Financial Analysis Unit, improving early detection of suspicious activities, and updating internal banking controls and oversight mechanisms to combat digital financial crime.
Disability and care: those absent from the public account
The article highlights the absence of disability rights and care work issues in Chile's recent Public Account. It points out that over 17% of the adult population lives with some form of disability, yet significant challenges remain, including access to healthcare, inclusive education, universal accessibility, and employment opportunities. The article criticizes the lack of comprehensive attention to these issues in the Public Account, noting only a reference to the National Telethon Day. It emphasizes the need to move beyond assistential approaches and ensure effective rights throughout life.