Chile Faces Backlash as New President Appoints Abortion Opponent to Key Post
Santiago, Chile – Chile’s incoming far-right president, José Antonio Kast, has sparked widespread concern among women’s rights activists with the appointment of Judith Marín, a staunch opponent of abortion, as the country’s new women and gender equality minister. The move signals a potential reversal of recent progress on reproductive rights in a nation with a complex history regarding abortion access.
A History of Restricted Access
Chile historically maintained a strict ban on abortion, inherited from the final decree of Augusto Pinochet in 1989. This prohibition remained in place for decades, making Chile one of the last countries in the world to maintain such a restrictive policy. A 2017 law change, enacted under the government of Michelle Bachelet, introduced limited exceptions, allowing abortion in cases of rape, unviable fetuses, or when the pregnant person’s life is at risk.
Kast’s Conservative Agenda
José Antonio Kast, who voted against legalizing divorce in 2004, has consistently opposed the liberalization of abortion laws. He has publicly advocated for a return to a total ban and has also supported requiring parental consent for emergency contraception. His appointment of Judith Marín, who has repeatedly stated her support for life “from conception to natural death,” underscores his commitment to this agenda. Marín is only 30 years old.
Activist Concerns and Recent Protests
Women’s rights activists are bracing for potential setbacks under Kast’s administration. Protests, including a large rally on International Women’s Day, demonstrate the strong opposition to any rollback of reproductive rights. One protester, Miriam Piturra, shared her experience of being forced to carry a non-viable pregnancy for an additional week due to legal requirements, highlighting the potential dangers of restricted abortion access. Such delays can lead to life-threatening complications like maternal sepsis.
Legislative Battles Continue
Despite the change in leadership, efforts to expand abortion access are ongoing. The health commission of the Chamber of Deputies recently approved a draft bill to legalize abortion up to 14 weeks, initially introduced by the previous government of Gabriel Boric in May 2025. However, the bill’s future is uncertain, dependent on the support of progressive legislators in the face of opposition from Kast’s government.
A Persistent Movement
Siomara Molina of the Permanent Assembly for the Legalization of Abortion emphasized the sustained growth of public support for abortion rights over the past 30 years. Despite the challenges posed by the new administration, activists remain determined to continue the fight for reproductive freedom. “We advance grain by grain, little by little,” Molina stated, expressing hope and solidarity among women and social movements.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will be critical in determining the future of women’s rights in Chile. While Kast’s government presents a clear challenge to reproductive freedom, the resilience of the feminist movement and the ongoing legislative efforts offer a glimmer of hope for those advocating for expanded abortion access.