The recent submission to Congress of the constitutional reform bill that grants recognition to Indigenous peoples represents a positive and long-awaited sign. We value that this initiative, promoted by President Gabriel Boric, gives continuity to a promise repeatedly made since the return to democracy: to settle a historical debt with the Indigenous peoples of Chile.
This step does not arise in a vacuum. It is one of the first concrete consequences of the work carried out by the Commission for Peace and Understanding, a body convened by the Government, which concluded its work with a clear report focused on change. That the Executive Branch has begun to translate its recommendations into legislative proposals is a sign that there is political will to move beyond rhetoric.
However, constitutional recognition, while a fundamental pillar, does not end the journey. It must be accompanied by other essential processes to build a more just, intercultural, and democratic coexistence.
One of these is the Indigenous Consultation, which must begin promptly, effectively, and with genuine participation. This mechanism, established by both domestic law and international treaties signed by Chile, is key to legitimately addressing legal changes that affect Indigenous peoples. Delaying its implementation only contributes to mistrust.
On the other hand, the urgent need to move forward with bills on reparations for victims of violence, particularly in the Araucanía Region, cannot be overlooked. True understanding requires acknowledging the harm done and creating alternative and effective compensation mechanisms that allow for rebuilding the fractured social fabric and restoring trust among all stakeholders in the region.
At Fundación Aitue, we welcome the progress toward constitutional recognition, but we reaffirm that this process will only be solid if it is linked to other equally important actions: effective consultation, restorative justice, and the active participation of communities. Peace and understanding are not decreed; they are built. And for that, more than laws are needed: will, dialogue, and coherence are essential.
Carlos Llancaqueo Mellado
President of the Aitue Foundation
