Santiago – A strong majority of Chilean citizens support increased security measures in schools following recent incidents of violence, including a fatal attack in Calama, according to a new Cadem survey released Monday. The poll reveals widespread agreement on measures ranging from surveillance cameras to backpack checks, signaling a growing public concern over safety within educational institutions.
The survey, conducted in early April 2026, comes after a particularly troubling period for Chilean schools. The attack in Calama, where a student fatally stabbed a school inspector and injured others, sparked national debate about school safety and the underlying causes of violence among youth. The incident, and others like it, have prompted the government to consider and implement new security protocols, and the Cadem poll demonstrates significant public backing for those efforts.
Overwhelming Support for Enhanced Security Protocols
The Cadem survey found that 92% of respondents agree with the installation of surveillance cameras inside schools. An equally high 86% support the implementation of metal detectors at school entrances. Further, 82% favor the use of facial recognition cameras, and 81% approve of allowing school staff to search students’ backpacks, according to the poll results. This broad consensus indicates a willingness among the public to accept potentially intrusive measures in the interest of student safety.
Root Causes: Mental Health and Delinquency
Although there is strong support for increased security, the public is divided on the root causes of school violence. The survey revealed that 56% of those polled attribute such incidents primarily to mental health issues, while 43% believe they stem from delinquency or broader criminal activity. This suggests a recognition that addressing school violence requires a multifaceted approach, tackling both individual student needs and broader societal issues.
Interestingly, the survey as well explored public perception of criminal responsibility. 69% of respondents stated that if a student throws a Molotov cocktail inside a school, they “are a delinquent,” signaling a firm stance against violent acts, even when committed by minors. This perspective was highlighted following a separate incident involving an incendiary device at a school in the Lastarria neighborhood, which authorities linked to extremist groups, as reported by Eldinamo.
A Broader Pattern of Concern
The Cadem survey also suggests that the public views the violence in schools as a widespread problem, not isolated incidents. 77% of those surveyed believe that violence in schools has increased, and 78% notice the Calama attack as indicative of a more general issue within Chile. Investigations into the Calama attack revealed the student had been planning the assault for months and was undergoing mental health treatment, further fueling the debate about preventative measures.
Political Implications and International Views
The survey also touched on political sentiment, revealing a slight increase in approval for President José Antonio Kast. His approval rating reached 44% (+1 percentage point), while his disapproval remained at 52% (+1 percentage point), showing little overall change.
Looking beyond domestic issues, the Cadem poll also gauged public opinion on international affairs, specifically regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump. The results showed a significant decline in positive sentiment towards Trump, with only 32% of respondents holding a favorable view – a 6-point drop. A substantial 67% expressed a negative view of the former president. 62% believe Trump is responsible for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and 65% disapprove of his actions towards Iran, with 74% calling for a swift complete to the conflict.
The Cadem survey provides a snapshot of public opinion at a critical moment for Chilean education. The overwhelming support for increased security measures reflects a deep-seated anxiety about the safety of students. The focus on both mental health and delinquency as contributing factors underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to address school violence. The next steps will likely involve the implementation of these security measures and a continued national conversation about the underlying causes of violence and how to best protect Chilean students.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
Share your thoughts on these findings in the comments below. We encourage a respectful and constructive dialogue on this important issue.
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