Has Chile ever abolished compulsory service?

Question

Has Chile ever abolished compulsory service? I've seen conflicting information about it. I remember that several years ago a couple of dozen young conscripted soldiers were killed in a snowstorm there, and all the political leaders promised to end compulsory service. Has this happened yet? If not, is it expected?

Answer 1

Chile is still  looking to change it.  Due to the military rule that took place in Chile from 1973 until 1989, It has not happened yet. There is a petition made by the Actual president (Michelle Bachellet), but it has not happened just yet. The petition was introduced to the Congress on June 15th, 2006 as a part of a plan called "Plan 100 Dias".

With "La Medida 34"  (Measure 34),  they are hoping that by 2010 more than 5000 Civilians would do it voluntarily.

I hope this helps you.

Answer 2

No, it is still going on. Remember that Chile was ruled by militars for many years and it will take some more to abolish compulsory services. What happened in Antuco (soldiers killed during snow storm) was a tragedy but has nothing to do with compulsory service. It was just a human error, the captain not knowing (or not judging) that the storm was heading their way and instead of staying put for the night, they had to continue going on. Chile is one of the few countries in South America where compulsory service is still going on, President Bachelet will try and eliminate this.