From Ideals to Action : The feminist Movement and their perspectives on the use of Violence in Chile’s Estallido Social

Abstract

The Estallido Social of 2019 stands as a pivotal event in contemporary Chilean history, mobilizing up to 1.2 million participants in demonstrations characterized by profound social unrest. These protests, fueled by deep-seated grievances, became the epicenter of significant human rights violations, with reports documenting 3,342 serious injuries and over 1,500 instances of abuse, primarily involving confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. Amidst this intense conflict, various groups emerged with distinct interpretations and objectives, leveraging the protests to advance their political agendas. Notably, the feminist movement, distinguished by its robust organizational structure and prominent presence, capitalized on this environment to exert significant influence. This study investigates how feminist organizations effectively utilized the unrest during the second wave of the Estallido Social to advance their political agenda and explores their stance on the use of violence. The methodology includes immersive fieldwork and in-depth interviews with five leaders from different feminist organizations, alongside five additional interviews with key social and institutional actors. The research highlights how feminist leaders navigated the chaotic dynamics of the Estallido Social to align their goals with the broader movement’s momentum. Their strategic efforts culminated in notable achievements, including securing gender parity in the articulation commission responsible for drafting the new constitution of 2019. The resulting constitutional proposal, one of the most progressive in recent history, features 388 articles dedicated to advancing equal rights across various sectors. This study not only provides insights into the feminist movement’s tactical approaches and successes but also sheds light on their complex relationship with the use of violence. By examining generational differences in solidarity with protesters, it reflects a nuanced interplay between historical legacies, immediate needs, and strategic considerations. The intricate relationship between activism and violence underscores the broader challenges faced by social movements in navigating state repression while advocating for systemic change.