On 12 October 2020, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated advice for Chile regarding the potential for protests between 18 and 25 October, which reads in part as follows:
“18 October marks a year since the start of widespread and, at times violent, political and social protests across Chile. Chileans will go the polls to vote on a new Constitution on 25 October. There remains a high likelihood of protests – with potential for accompanying violence – on, and around, 18 and 25 October. Please follow local guidance and avoid areas of protest.
“… Since July protests and violence have increased in Santiago, with various incidents having occurred, including the use of projectiles against police, flaming barricades, an arsonist attack on a metro station, and the burning of buses by small groups of protesters.
“Other cities, including Concepción, Viña del Mar, Valparaíso, and Osorno have also seen sporadic incidents over the past few months. Some protests have seen isolated incidents of the use of small arms by members of the public. If protests take place, you should follow the instructions and advice of the local authorities, remain vigilant, monitor local media for updates and avoid protests and demonstrations.”
