Person

José Antonio Kast

1. Chile's unemployment rises to 9.6%, highest in over five years, as Kast government pursues austerity

   BBC Mundo reported that Chile's unemployment rate has risen to 9.6%, the highest in more than five years; private and public productive investment showed zero growth in the second quarter, mainly due to a construction slump, and domestic demand barely grew. Living costs rose 4.1% year on year in July, driven by a surge in fuel prices, as Chile imports almost all its crude oil, and mining in the world's largest copper exporter also fell sharply. The finance minister told business leaders in Santiago in early October 'not to lose calm' as President Kast's government pursues a fiscal austerity plan.

   Oct 21, 2026 Morning
2. Chilean arts sector protests president-elect Kast's planned deep culture-budget cuts

   Le Monde reported that Chile's cultural sector was shaken by plans for deep cuts to the culture budget disclosed by the team of president-elect José Antonio Kast, with museums, theatres and independent arts groups fearing projects would stop. Kast campaigned on right-wing security and fiscal cleanup; culture already accounts for a limited share of overall spending. Exact cut ratios and whether Congress will pass them await a formal budget bill.

   Oct 20, 2026 Afternoon