Chileans to vote on proposed new constitution with echoes of U.S. conservatism
On December 16, 2023, a Chilean citizen received a copy of the proposed new constitution ahead of Sunday’s referendum outside the presidential palace in Santiago, according to a report from Ivan Alvarado/Reuters. The proposed constitution has triggered debate and drawn criticism due to its conservative implications and similarities to U.S. conservative values.
The document, largely drafted by members of Chile’s right-wing Republican Party, presents aspects that are more conservative than the 1980 dictatorship-era constitution it aims to replace. The proposed constitution includes provisions such as protecting religious objections, the right to home-school, and language that could be interpreted as suggesting personhood for fetuses.
Critics of the proposed constitution argue that it overlooks addressing inequalities and makes a notable shift toward conservative ideals. Its connection to current trends in U.S. conservatism is seen as a reflection of the growing global influence of religious conservatives in the United States, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court.
Last year, Chileans rejected an entirely different constitution, which was considered one of the world’s most progressive, with extensive rights for various groups. This year’s proposed constitution has faced criticism for its length, left-leaning nature, and radical changes to the country’s political and judicial system. Polls suggest that Chileans may once again reject the proposed document.
The direct involvement of U.S. conservative players in crafting the constitution is not confirmed, but it’s noted that the experience and mentors of one of the key architects of the new constitution at the University of Notre Dame informed his approach in drafting the document. U.S. conservative groups and legal cases have influenced the discussions and concepts included in the proposed Chilean constitution.
Despite its potential rejection, the proposed constitution is expected to keep its ideas in the political debate in Chile, reflecting a conservative wave with a strong emphasis on educational and religious liberties.
The criticism and polarization around the proposed constitution reflect the fragile state of common ground and public good in Chilean society. While many feel disillusioned by the failed attempts to create a new constitution, others still believe that the effort was worth it and will contribute to shaping a clearer vision of what change should look like in the future.