The director of the National Institute of Human Rights (INDH), Consuelo Contreras, addressed President Gabriel Boric’s decision to convene the National Security Council (Cosena) to obtain opinions on the implementation of the critical infrastructure project amid the current situation of security that the country experiences.

Contreras stressed that the president “has every right and duty to consult with those who deem appropriate to address the serious security situation that the country is experiencing.” He emphasized that security is a fundamental human right and is closely linked to the right to liberty.

However, the director of the INDH pointed out that the military, although they are prepared for war and use war weapons, recognize that their task is not to control public order, but that this responsibility falls on the Carabineros. Contreras expressed her concern by pointing out that the police “do not have all the necessary expertise and training” for this task, urging to strengthen this area within the police forces.

“We are raising alerts regarding the measures that are going to be taken so that the least amount of citizens’ rights are affected,” added Contreras, underlining the importance of implementing security measures that respect the fundamental rights of the population.