Women march in Santiago for rights

Thousands of women and supporters marched through central Santiago to mark International Women’s Day, transforming the capital’s main avenues into a sea of banners, flags and chants demanding equal rights, stronger protection against gender-based violence and broader social reforms. Organizers and participants—including feminist groups, labor unions, student organizations and civil society activists—converged at Plaza Italia and proceeded under slogans such as "Not one step back, one hundred steps forward," calling for protections for women’s rights, housing, healthcare, decent work, reproductive rights and an end to femicide and domestic violence.

Feminist Coordination 8M spokesperson Fernanda Cavada said the mobilization sought to defend hard-won rights and to oppose what organizers described as the rise of fascism and the conservative far right globally and domestically following the recent election victory of far-right politician José Antonio Kast. Several marchers voiced concern that the incoming conservative government could roll back gains achieved through years of activism.

Speakers at the rally urged the state to strengthen policies on gender equality, expand support for victims of abuse and improve enforcement of laws against gender-based violence. Activists also highlighted persistent inequalities—such as the gender pay gap, underrepresentation in leadership, economic barriers and limited access to services—that they say remain despite recent legal reforms and heightened public awareness.

The demonstration combined protest with cultural expression: chants, songs, dances and symbolic performances punctuated the route, with many participants carrying purple and green flags symbolic of the global women’s movement. Police maintained a visible presence to manage crowds and traffic; authorities reported the march was largely peaceful, although isolated incidents of property damage and confrontations near the end were reported.

Government officials acknowledged the protest as reflecting significant societal concerns, with some pledging continued reforms and others calling for dialogue between activists and policymakers. Organizers framed the strong turnout as evidence that the women’s movement in Chile remains active and determined, and they said ongoing public pressure will be needed to secure meaningful, lasting change.