Once praised as one of Latin America’s most stable systems, Chile now faces growing pressure to prove that stability still means progress.
Chile is a presidential democracy. Every four years, citizens elect a president and members of Congress, the full Chamber of Deputies and half of the Senate. The president governs for a single four-year term and cannot run for immediate re-election, which is why Gabriel Boric, elected in 2021, will not appear on the ballot this time.
Elections take place in two rounds: if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, the top two contenders face each other in a runoff. Since 2022, voting has been compulsory, turning participation into both a right and a civic duty. Congress, elected through a proportional system, holds significant power, shaping laws, negotiating coalitions, and often determining how much a president can actually achieve.
This balance of power defines Chile’s democracy: stable, institutional, and built on negotiation. The system has helped preserve democratic norms and prevent political dominance, though it can also slow major reforms — a challenge that has become evident since the 2019 protests and the unsuccessful attempt to draft a new constitution.
As Chile heads to the polls, key issues such as security, the cost of living, and trust in institutions shape the national debate. Voters will not only choose a new president but also signal the priorities and expectations for the next stage of Chile’s democratic path.
