Politics & Government Guide in Chile

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions

Chile operates as a representative democratic republic with a powerful presidency and bicameral Congress. Following the 2026 election, right-wing President José Antonio Kast leads after the left-wing Boric administration, amid persistent polarization, fragmentation, and institutional distrust stemming from 2019 protests.

Government Type

Representative democratic republic

Legal System

Civil law system

Head of State

President José Antonio Kast(since 2026)

Head of Government

President José Antonio Kast(Republican Party)since 2026

Legislature

Type:bicameral

Upper House:Senate (50 seats)

Lower House:Chamber of Deputies (155 seats)

Major Political Parties

Republican Party(PLR)

Right-wing

Frente Amplio(FA)

Left-wing

Voting Rights

Universal suffrage for citizens aged 18 and over. Citizens can vote from age 18, run for office from age 21 for lower house and age 35 for president.

Recent Developments

José Antonio Kast inaugurated as President on March 11, 2026, marking shift from left-wing to right-wing government
Ongoing political polarization and fragmentation with 23 parties in Chamber of Deputies as of 2024
Failed constitutional replacement processes in 2022 amid 2019 protest legacy
Proposed USD 6 billion public spending cuts in 2026 budget plan

Voting Age18

SuffrageUniversal

Constitution1980

Regions16