Union repertoires in the Social Outbreak and the constitutional process in southern Chile (2019–2021). Experiences and perceptions of union leaders in the regions of Maule, Ñuble, Biobío and Araucanía

Abstract

The last four years have meant a series of events in Chile of great relevance and impact on social relations. In October 2019 there was a popular revolt that culminated in an agreement for a new Constitution. In 2020, the COVID 19 pandemic became known and spread. In 2021, presidential elections were held, while in 2022 there was a constitutional plebiscite. All these events have been important parts of a more complex sociopolitical process that has had multiple manifestations. In this article we analyze the perceptions, interpretations and meanings that union leaders from the southern regions of the country have formulated about this process, as well as their expectations, criticisms and analysis of the implications of these ongoing sociohistorical changes for labor relations and work.