The President of the Republic, Gabriel Boric, along with former presidents Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle, Ricardo Lagos, Sebastián Piñera and Michelle Bachelet, have signed the “Santiago Commitment” under the motto “For democracy, always.” This document arises in the context of commemorating the 50th anniversary of the olpe d’état, the episode that deeply marked the nation and that, tragically, cost the lives, dignity, and freedom of countless Chileans and people from other nations. Beyond their political differences, they have come together in a joint call to safeguard and strengthen democracy and human rights in the country. Sebastián Piñera has signed the declaration despite the fact that the coalition to which he belongs, Chile Vamos, has withdrawn.
In the first point of the “Santiago Commitment,” the leaders pledge to care for and defend democracy, respect the Constitution, the laws, and the rule of law. This commitment emphasizes the importance of preserving and protecting the civilizing principles that underpin democracy against authoritarian threats, intolerance, and contempt for divergent opinions. This declaration reflects the will of these leaders to maintain respect for democratic institutions as a fundamental pillar of Chilean society.
Meeting Democratic Challenges with More Democracy
In the second section of the letter, they commit to face the challenges of democracy with more democracy, rejecting any temptation to reduce citizen participation. This commitment translates into the condemnation of violence as a means of conflict resolution and the promotion of dialogue and the peaceful solution of differences. In addition, they put citizen well-being on the horizon, underlining the importance of government policies being oriented towards the benefit and prosperity of all citizens.
Promotion of Human Rights as Shared Value
In the penultimate point of the commitment, the leaders unite to make the defense and promotion of human rights a value shared by the entire political and social community of Chile, regardless of ideological differences. This call for unity in the protection of fundamental rights highlights the need for human rights not to be the object of political polarization, but rather an unconditional commitment from the entire Chilean society.
Strengthening International Collaboration
Lastly, the leaders commit to strengthening spaces for collaboration between States through a mature multilateralism that is respectful of differences. This implies pursuing common objectives necessary for the sustainable development of Chilean society and the well-being of its population. This international approach seeks to address global challenges with an inclusive and cooperative perspective.
