Tomorrow, September 4, Chile will vote on the proposed new constitution. This referendum marks one of the most important and significant milestones in Chile’s recent history. To analyze the post-referendum scenarios, FYNSA, in partnership with La Tercera, organized an event that was broadcast on latercera.com and streamed via FYNSA’s social media channels, featuring Roberto Izikson, Public Affairs Manager at the polling firm Cadem; former congresswoman and former constitutional convention delegate Marcela Cubillos; and former minister and former congressman José Antonio Viera-Gallo. The debate was moderated by journalist Matías del Río.

Public Perception

The constitutional debate is unfolding within a very unique context, according to Izikson, with profound shifts in public perceptions. Over the past three years, there has been a sharp decline in self-confidence, a loss of pride in what it means to be Chilean, and a polarization in how people perceive their own well-being—with the wealthiest sectors reporting higher levels of life satisfaction and the lower-middle classes reporting higher levels of dissatisfaction than before the social unrest. Paradoxically, this context reflects a renewed legitimization of the Armed Forces and security forces, as well as a renewed appreciation for experienced politicians. “We are in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty,” said Izikson. “Whatever the outcome of the plebiscite, the government will face challenges far greater than those it faced before the social unrest.”

Regarding what we can expect after the referendum, Cubillos, who supports the “no” vote, is skeptical that the groups backing the constitutional proposal will be open to the significant changes that, in his opinion, the constitutional text requires should the “yes” vote win. Viera-Gallo, who supports the “yes” vote, is confident, on the other hand, that the political forces will reach an agreement to make the necessary corrections to the proposed Constitution.

You can watch the event HERE