Chile commemorates the 50th anniversary of the military coup

Chile marks a significant milestone as it remembers the military coup that took place 50 years ago, overthrowing the democratically elected socialist president, Salvador Allende. The coup resulted in the rise of the military junta under General Augusto Pinochet, leading to a brutal 17-year dictatorship characterized by human rights abuses. The impact of this event continues to divide and haunt the country, as the wounds of the past are reopened and efforts are made to seek justice and accountability. The current government, led by President Gabriel Boric, has launched the National Search Plan to locate and determine the fate of the 1,469 people who disappeared during the military rule. This state-backed program aims to provide closure to the families of the victims and offer reparations, but challenges persist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The anniversary also highlighted the divisions within Chilean society, as some right-wing politicians and supporters of the late dictator, Pinochet, criticized the government’s commemoration efforts and defended the actions of the military regime. However, the declaration signed by all living former presidents condemning the dictatorship serves as a symbol of unity and a reminder of the importance of defending democracy and human rights.