UN experts denounce celebrations at Chile's Colonia Dignidad

United Nations experts have issued a warning against holding social events and celebrations at the former Colonia Dignidad site in Chile. The settlement, founded by a former Nazi officer, served as a center for detention, torture, and forced disappearances during the Augusto Pinochet dictatorship (1973–1990).

The experts expressed dismay over reports of weddings and festivities taking place at Villa Baviera, the former enclave. They emphasized that any use of the site must respect the dignity of victims and their families, contributing to truth and memory rather than undermining it. The site is known to contain the remains of victims who were buried, exhumed, or incinerated on the premises.

While previous efforts included the establishment of a Chilean-German mixed commission and plans for expropriation, the experts noted that expropriation processes appear to have stalled. They urged Chilean authorities to take necessary measures to prevent revictimization and preserve evidence, stating that the location cannot be treated merely as a tourist or entertainment attraction.