Chile's Ley Karin faces challenges amid surge in workplace harassment complaints

Two years after the implementation of Ley Karin in Chile, the legislation has brought workplace harassment, sexual harassment, and violence into the organizational spotlight. While the law has prompted companies to update internal regulations and implement reporting protocols, the focus is shifting from mere compliance to active prevention through leadership and technology.

However, the surge in reports has created significant administrative pressure. Susana Jiménez, president of the Confederation of Production and Commerce (CPC), noted an explosive increase in complaints that lacks an admissibility process. This has caused congestion within the Directorate of Labor (Dirección del Trabajo), with resolution times potentially stretching from the required 30 days to 8–10 months.

Jiménez emphasized the need for criteria to filter legitimate accusations and highlighted the logistical difficulties small businesses face when required to separate complainants from the accused. Additionally, the government is considering replacing the current severance system for dismissals due to company needs with a universal indemnity regime.