Chile's Culture Ministry faces budget cuts and controversy under new minister

Francisco Undurraga, newly appointed Minister of Culture in Chile, announced a 9% reduction in the ministry's budget. He suspended the construction of the large GAM hall and publicly accused a well‑known actress of organizing a protest against him, actions that have drawn criticism from cultural figures.

Critics also warn that the president‑elect plans to merge the Culture and Education portfolios into a new “propaganda ministry,” citing concerns about manipulation of public sentiment and a shift away from secular education. In a public statement Undurraga said, “I understand the anxieties and difficulties of those who work in culture, because I grew up with a visual artist mother,” highlighting the personal dimension of the debate.