This is a novice committee.

Following massive protests over living conditions, privatization, and inequality, the Chilean government held a referendum in 2020 which established the Constitutional Convention with a clear mandate for reform. Delegates in this committee represent the elected members from all across Chile who will collectively draft a new constitution to replace the one left behind from the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. The new constitution will need to address pressing issues such as social welfare, indigenous rights, and protecting civil liberties while also creating a lasting compromise to bridge the various divides in Chilean society.

Topics And Questions To Consider

topic 1: Economic Upheaval

Questions to Consider

1. How can the new constitution balance popular demand for the end of neoliberalism with sensible economic policy?

2. What role should the government have in economic policy?

3. Should the private sector play a role in social services or should it be the obligation of the state? Should the principle of subsidiarity be replaced?

4. To what degree should populist ideals (i.e.nationalization, state intervention, social welfare, trade union power, protectionism) be implemented into the new constitution?

5. Conversely, to what extent should neoliberal ideals (i.e. privatization, deregulation, business friendly environment, etc.) remain?

6. What role can the constitution play in promoting economic diversification, reducing inequality, and improving cost of living?

Topic 2: Political and Social Upheaval

Questions to Consider

1. How should the government and election system be structured? Should the constitution favor a strong executive or checks on power?

2. Did the various amendments to the previous constitution suffice or does more action need to be taken to protect democracy?

3. How can the constitution strengthen personal freedoms? What new rights should be integrated into the new constitution?

4. How can the constitution ensure protections for and recognition of indigenous people?

5. What can the constitution do to bridge social divisions in Chile? Should the constitution aim for a unified identity or embrace plurinationalism?

meet your dais!