In Chile demand for public education reform has led to a protest that has been ongoing since July, 2011. The Public education system in Chile is currently operated by local governments. Because of this, inequality in interregional educational is severe. To make matters worse the Sebastian Pinera government which came to power last March, announced education budget cuts earlier this year which has only served to increase tensions.
60,000 students, teachers, and parents had been protesting by dancing and singing in Santiago City. The protest began peacefully, but it has become increasingly violent. Students are burning cars and barricades, and objects are being thrown in the street. The police have responded by beating protesters and cracking down on the protest. A 16-year-old boy was recently shot dead. Violent protests will always lead to a backlash by the government. Hopefully the protest in Chile can refocus on the issues that originally led to them.