South American leaders seek legislative and constitutional reforms

Across South America, governments are seeking to expand legislative authority or implement constitutional changes.

In Chile, the government and political parties have reached an agreement to accelerate the security agenda against organized crime and terrorism. This includes renewing urgency for 23 initiatives, with 10 slated for immediate discussion, such as modernizing the Carabineros and strengthening municipal security. A constitutional reform remains temporarily frozen.

In Peru, Prime Minister Luis Galarreta has requested that Congress prioritize the delegation of legislative powers to the Executive. The proposal covers eight areas, including citizen security, economic dynamism, and digital transformation. The request follows violent incidents in Trujillo and aims to provide the state with faster tools to combat criminal organizations and manage emergencies like El Niño.

In Bolivia, President Rodrigo Paz has proposed making “key” constitutional reforms through a two-thirds majority in the Legislative Assembly. He distinguishes these targeted changes from a full constitutional overhaul, suggesting that specific amendments could be implemented quickly to facilitate investment and economic stability.