Women’s rights activists in Chile are expressing deep concern as José Antonio Kast, a conservative president known for his anti-abortion stance, prepares to take office on Wednesday. Simultaneously, North Korea is set to resume passenger train services with China for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic halted operations in 2020.

Kast's Inauguration and Women's Rights Concerns
José Antonio Kast, a 60-year-old ultra-Catholic politician and staunch supporter of the Pinochet regime, is expected to implement policies that could significantly roll back women's rights in Chile. His history includes voting against divorce legalization in 2004 and opposing limited abortion rights established in 2017. Kast has openly advocated for a total abortion ban and parental consent for emergency contraception. His recent appointment of Judith Marín, an anti-abortion activist, as the women's and gender equality minister signals a hardline approach to gender issues. Activists fear that Kast's administration will complicate access to abortion, despite existing laws that allow it under specific circumstances.

The Impact of Kast's Policies
Experts warn that even if Kast does not succeed in abolishing the current abortion law, his government could modify the existing legal exceptions, further restricting access. Since the introduction of the three-exceptions clause in 2017, approximately 7,000 legal abortions have been recorded, but estimates suggest that over 100,000 induced abortions occur annually in Chile. The feminist movement, which has been a driving force in advocating for women's rights and a new constitution, faces internal divisions that could hinder its effectiveness against the impending changes.

Resumption of Train Services Between China and North Korea
In a separate development, train services between China and North Korea are set to resume on March 12, 2023, following a six-year suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Travel operators report that Chinese citizens working and studying in North Korea can now purchase tickets, with the first train scheduled to depart on Thursday. Although tourists are currently not permitted to buy tickets, travel agencies anticipate that the resumption of train services will eventually facilitate tourism to North Korea, providing an alternative to air travel.

China’s Role and North Korea's Isolation
China remains North Korea's primary ally and economic supporter, although Pyongyang has been strengthening ties with Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The North Korean government has shown mixed signals regarding further openings, as evidenced by the recent cancellation of an international marathon in Pyongyang, a significant event for foreign visitors.

Wrap-up
The contrasting developments in Chile and North Korea highlight the complexities of global political landscapes. Kast's administration poses a significant threat to women's rights in Chile, while the resumption of train services between China and North Korea marks a cautious step toward reopening after years of isolation. Both situations warrant close attention as they unfold in the coming weeks.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team