In a significant development for Chile's political landscape, the right wing in the country has presented a draft conservative constitution that has garnered mixed reactions from observers. The proposed constitution, drafted by a council led by the far-right Republican party, has raised concerns about potential setbacks in various areas, including reproductive rights, labor rights, and political representation.

The draft constitution poses a threat to access to abortion and would potentially limit the right to collective strike action. Furthermore, it proposes a reduction in the number of deputies elected to Chile's congress. These proposed changes have sparked debate among Chileans, as they could significantly alter the current legal framework.

Leftwing president Gabriel Boric received the new draft constitution on Tuesday during a ceremony in Santiago. In response, he called for a plebiscite to take place on December 17, where all citizens will have the opportunity to vote on the proposed constitution.

This development marks the latest twist in Chile's political landscape, which has experienced four years of political drama. In 2019, deep-rooted inequalities and political dissatisfaction led to widespread protests. As a response, political leaders initiated the process of replacing the existing 1980 constitution, which had faced criticism despite numerous reforms.

A previous draft constitution, hailed as the world's most progressive, faced a resounding rejection in a plebiscite held in September 2022. Now, Chileans will have the chance to vote on an alternative that represents the opposite end of the political spectrum.

Notably, the new draft constitution, similar to the current Pinochet-era charter, does not acknowledge the existence of Indigenous Chileans, despite approximately 13% of the population identifying as Indigenous.

Criticism of the previous draft constitution highlighted its extensive length and vast range of guaranteed rights, including universal access to healthcare and education, as well as protections for culinary heritage and animal welfare.

One especially contentious article in the new draft constitution asserts that "the law protects the life of the unborn," with a slight change in wording from the current constitution. This alteration has raised concerns that it could result in a complete ban on abortion in Chile. Presently, abortions are legal in cases of rape, risk to the mother's life, or a nonviable fetus.

Following the failure of the initial draft constitution, Chilean political parties devised a tightly controlled second process. This process includes compulsory voting at each stage and the nomination of experts by congress to draft a pre-proposal, which elected delegates will then amend.

The ultra-conservative Republican party made significant gains in the May elections and secured more than one-third of the seats in the constitutional council, fueling public debate and media speculation regarding future developments.

As the plebiscite approaches, Chileans remain divided on the proposed conservative constitution, with some viewing it as a step backward for the country while others argue it represents the values of "true Chileans." The outcome of the vote on December 17 will undoubtedly shape the country's political direction for years to come.