The 2021 Chilean presidential election features two candidates from vastly different political and social spectrums: Gabriel Boric, a 35-year-old leader of the student-led education marches and current deputy, representing the center-left with support from the Front Amplio which includes the Communist Party; and José Antonio Kast, a 55-year-old candidate from the right-wing Partido Republicano who founded his party in 2019 after leaving the UDI, a neoliberal party.
Recent polls indicate this election is the most uncertain in the last three decades, with Boric having a slight edge over Kast following the second round's results. This election is pivotal for Chile, as it represents a choice between a neoliberal economic model and a welfare state offering services.
Both candidates are attempting to appeal to the center electorate in their final debate, recognizing the need to secure votes from the divided Congress, where the Senate is split equally between conservatives and progressives, and the Chamber of Deputies is fragmented. Boric criticized Kast for not participating in the October agreement that sought to end protests through a constitutional reform referendum, while Kast defended his commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
The election outcomes will likely influence policies on security, migration, pension improvements, minimum wage, and social rights. Amidst these, a significant reform of the constitution is underway through a convention with gender parity and indigenous representation. This reform aims to address social inequality, a critical issue highlighted by the 2019 protests.
The next president faces a challenging scenario with low approval ratings, reduced fiscal space, rising inflation, and higher prices for basic goods. However, Chile has one of the world's highest vaccination rates due to the government's efforts. The winner must negotiate with the bicameral legislature to advance a national project and ensure the constitutional plebiscite's orderly and transparent process. Despite representing opposing ideologies, both candidates must connect with the population to lead a more democratic society with less inequality and alleviate social tensions.
