Chile Must Build On Achievements In The Judiciary To Address Inequality And Prevent Undue Influence: Special Rapporteur

Satterthwaite identified a strong consensus among stakeholders that the administrative and jurisdictional functions for which the Supreme Court is responsible must be separated. Currently, the Supreme Court sits at the apex of a hierarchical system in which it simultaneously reviews the decisions of lower court judges and issues directives, provides economic oversight, and oversees the discipline and evaluation of those same judges.

The expert also addressed recent allegations that key judicial appointments may have been subject to influence-peddling. “I call on the judiciary to address calls for greater transparency in appointments to apex courts. Investigations into allegations of influence peddling should come to fruition shortly and send a strong message about what principles the Chilean judiciary stands for,” Satterthwaite said.

Chile is facing challenges that it has never faced before, such as the influx of organised crime, the pressures of a changing climate and the growing influence of the extractive industries, the Special Rapporteur said, encouraging all stakeholders to be vigilant about security concerns taking over all other debates in the country, to the detriment of its human rights obligations.

Justice should be one of the main pillars to any solution to the conflict. For that reason, the judicial system should be active in providing just responses to the claims that underpin the conflict in the region and should be provided the resources and support to provide adequate, culturally sensitive access to justice.

The expert said she was gravely concerned to hear about harsh sentences, discrimination in law enforcement and proceedings, and the inequality of arms.

The expert will present a report on the visit, including her findings and recommendations to the Human Rights Council in June 2025.