Groups criticize austerity package and economic reforms that will still be analyzed by the Senate
Students, teachers and members of social movements protested on Wednesday (June 3, 2026) in Santiago against budget cuts and austerity measures by the president’s government (Republican Party, right). The act ended in clashes with the police, who used tear gas and water jets to disperse the protesters.
The mobilization was called by the Chilean Student Confederation and had the support of teachers’ unions and social groups. Protesters criticize the reduction in public spending announced by the government and claim that the cuts compromise educational programs and access to higher education.
Since assuming the Presidency in March, Kast has defended a fiscal adjustment plan that foresees a reduction of around US$6 billion in public expenses over 18 months. As part of the initiative, the government ordered a cut of almost 3% in the budget of all ministries.
In addition to measures in education, the act also targeted the National Reconstruction project, a package of economic reforms approved by the Chamber of Deputies and which will still be analyzed by the Chilean Senate. The proposal seeks to reduce state spending, stimulate investment and boost the country’s economic activity.
