Chile: Student protests in Santiago over education budget cuts

Clashes broke out in Santiago between students and police during a protest against potential cuts to public education. The demonstration followed the presentation of a draft budget by Chilean President José Antonio Kast.

Police utilized tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds, while some protesters responded by throwing stones. At least six individuals were arrested during the march, which moved from central Santiago toward the La Moneda presidential palace.

Protesters expressed opposition to the administration's direction, chanting against the educational model associated with former dictator Augusto Pinochet. While President Kast recently stated that higher education would remain free for over 600,000 students, his administration has previously considered abolishing that right as part of broader austerity measures. The government's budget proposal also includes a 9.1% increase in security spending and an 8.1% increase in resources for development and employment.