Chile terminates Rural Women program, ending support for 35,000 women

The Chilean government confirmed the termination of the Rural Women program, a partnership between the Institute of Agricultural Development (Indap) and the Fundación para el Desarrollo de la Mujer (Prodemu). Established in 1992, the initiative trained about 35,000 women in horticulture, poultry, beekeeping and crafts. The decision, announced by Indap officials, cites administrative and financial inefficiencies, with 38.5% of the program’s $3.869 billion budget allocated to administrative costs.

Local female farm leaders condemned the move, calling it a betrayal of rural women who rely on the program for empowerment and income. They warned that existing beneficiaries may lack alternatives, as the program will stop accepting new applicants while continuing support for current participants. Prodemu’s director highlighted the foundation’s precarious finances, noting a deficit of over $2.6 billion, but affirmed it will remain operational.

The authorities stressed that the termination does not end Indap’s overall assistance to rural women, and that the change aims to redirect public resources more efficiently.