Chilean President Gabriel Boric has identified the left’s failures as contributing to the global rise of the far right. He highlights significant reforms such as pension restructuring while acknowledging past missteps in constitutional drafts. He warns against right-wing populism and stresses the importance of multilateralism and sustainable economic policies as he enters the final year of his presidency.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric has recognized that the recent rise of far-right ideologies globally can be partially attributed to failures within leftist movements. In an exclusive interview, he emphasized that effectively countering extremist movements necessitates a shift toward more substantive actions that genuinely enhance the populace’s quality of life, rather than mere rhetoric.
Reflecting on his administration’s record, which began in March 2022, Boric highlighted significant accomplishments such as the reform of Chile’s pension system to alleviate the issues associated with inadequate retirement plans. “There was a broad consensus that the system was unsustainable and that pensions were undignified,” he stated, underscoring his government’s aim to secure improvements in citizens’ living conditions.
Boric also touched upon the challenges faced, acknowledging mistakes particularly connected to the failed attempt to draft a new constitution, which voters rejected in 2022. He noted that his administration was overly accommodating toward radical groups involved in the drafting process. “We had too much complacency with sectors that refused to take responsibility for the consequences of their actions,” he admitted.
Regarding the political climate, Boric addressed the global rise of right-wing populism, citing figures like former President Trump who exploit collective fears. He expressed concern over the hysteria created by such leaders, stating, “These types of leaders want us to fall into a state of hysteria.”
Boric also discussed economic relations with the United States, particularly concerning copper exports amidst a potential investigation into their national security ramifications. He asserted that tariffs on copper would be detrimental to both countries and dismissed the sustainability of protectionist measures, remarking, “Survival of the fittest is a lie that has no legs. A trade war is not sustainable.”
In light of ongoing global uncertainties, Boric affirmed Chile’s commitment to a multilateral stance, rejecting the notion that smaller countries should evade controversy. He stated, “We are not anyone’s backyard. We must defend the principles we believe in.”
With one year remaining in his presidency, Boric’s focus lies on fortifying his administration’s achievements and ensuring the left-wing coalition in Chile proposes a lasting political alternative. He concluded, “What matters is a long-term vision. Countries are built with that in mind.”
In summary, President Gabriel Boric acknowledges the left’s role in the rise of the far right and emphasizes the need for substantial actions over rhetoric. He reflects on both achievements and missteps of his administration, particularly in pension reform and constitutional drafting. Boric articulates concerns regarding global right-wing populism and economic relations with the US, reaffirming a commitment to multilateralism and emphasizing the importance of a long-term political vision in his final year in office.
Original Source: efe.com
