Santiago, In the conclusion of her 12-day visit, UN Special Rapporteur Alexandra Xanthaki emphasized the need for Chile to enhance its legal and structural framework to support the cultural rights of its population. Xanthaki highlighted the importance of addressing stereotypes and enhancing the recognition of diverse cultural identities within the country.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Xanthaki urged the Chilean government to implement measures to counteract negative stereotypes affecting various community segments, including women and migrants. She advocated for an educational system that embraces intercultural values and acknowledges the histories of Afro-descendant communities.

The Special Rapporteur underscored the necessity for Indigenous Peoples in Chile to exercise rights in alignment with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly in heritage preservation and gaining consent on matters impacting their communities.

While praising Chile’s commitment to international human rights and multilateralism, Xanthaki expressed concerns over the lack of explicit protection for cultural rights in national legislation and the constitution. She called for a comprehensive strategy to foster cultural rights, moving away from a segmented approach to policy and practice.

Xanthaki’s visit included discussions with government officials, cultural representatives, civil society, and Indigenous leaders, as well as tours of cultural and heritage sites. She plans to submit a detailed report of her findings and recommendations to the Human Rights Council in March 2025.