Chilean President Boric Reflects on Left’s Role in Far Right Rise
Chilean President Gabriel Boric acknowledges that the rise of the far right is partly due to the left’s failures. In an interview, he reflects on his administration’s achievements, including pension reform and laws against gender-based violence. He critiques his early administration for being overly lenient and emphasizes the need for collective action against fear-driven populism. Boric also addresses potential economic tensions with the US regarding copper exports and advocates for a multilateral approach in global affairs.
In an exclusive interview, Chilean President Gabriel Boric has acknowledged that the recent global upsurge of far-right movements is, in part, a result of failures by the left. As he embarks on the final year of his presidency, Boric emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to counter extremism, asserting that it requires “ideology, conviction, less rhetoric, and more concrete actions that improve people’s quality of life.”
Reflecting on his presidency, which began in March 2022, Boric highlighted key achievements such as the pension reform designed to tackle Chile’s inadequate retirement system. He stated, “There was a broad consensus that the system was unsustainable and that pensions were undignified,” indicating that despite significant disagreements, they reached an agreement to enhance citizens’ lives.
Boric also pointed to the establishment of a comprehensive law against gender-based violence, the creation of Chile’s inaugural Ministry of Security, and improvements in public transportation, such as free rides on specific services. However, he expressed self-criticism regarding his administration’s approach to the failed constitutional reform, admitting miscalculations in accommodating radical factions during its drafting.
He noted, “We had too much complacency with sectors that refused to take responsibility for the consequences of their actions,” recognizing that a broader consensus was necessary. On the global political stage, Boric discussed the rise of right-wing populism, particularly highlighting figures like former President Donald Trump, and cautioned against letting fear dictate political action: “These types of leaders want us to fall into a state of hysteria.”
Addressing potential economic tensions with the United States, Boric discussed Trump’s investigation into imported copper’s impact on national security, which could lead to tariffs affecting Chile, the world’s largest copper producer. He cautioned, “If tariffs were imposed on copper, it would be bad news, first and foremost, for people from the US.” He denounced protectionist economic policies as unsustainable, stating, “Survival of the fittest is a lie that has no legs.”
Boric asserted his commitment to a multilateral approach, rejecting the notion that smaller nations should sidestep controversy, claiming, “We are not anyone’s backyard.” He articulated a vision for Chile’s left-wing coalition to offer a strong alternative in future elections, stressing the importance of a long-term perspective: “Countries are built with that in mind.”
In summary, President Gabriel Boric has recognized the influence of leftist shortcomings on the rise of far-right movements and emphasized the necessity for concrete action to counter this trend. His administration has made significant strides in pension reform and other key policies, while also reflecting critically on past missteps. Finally, Boric advocates for a principled stance in international affairs and the importance of a long-term vision for political progress in Chile.
Original Source: efe.com
