URGENT UPDATE: Chile has just appointed Judith Marín, a prominent anti-abortion advocate, as its new Minister of Women and Gender Equality. This significant move comes from the newly inaugurated far-right president, José Antonio Kast, who made the announcement as part of his first cabinet on Tuesday, December 2025.
At just 30 years old, Marín is a former leader of a student evangelical church group known as the Eagles of Jesus, which holds far-right Christian views. Her appointment signals a pivotal shift in Chile’s approach to gender equality and reproductive rights, as she has openly defended traditional family structures and expressed skepticism about the future of the ministry she now leads.
Marín’s stance against abortion is well-documented; she was previously expelled from Chile’s senate for vocally opposing a bill to decriminalize abortion. Currently, abortion in Chile is only permitted under three specific circumstances: when the mother’s life is at risk, in cases of rape, or if the fetus is not viable. However, the Chilean congress is actively debating a new bill that could decriminalize abortion for any reason up to the 14th week of pregnancy, which could have widespread implications for women’s rights in the country.
The appointment of Marín, alongside Kast’s cabinet of 24 members—13 men and 11 women—reinforces a right-wing agenda that is gaining momentum in Latin America. Kast, who has drawn comparisons to former U.S. President Donald Trump, is known for his support of the late dictator Augusto Pinochet, making this cabinet one of the most conservative in Chile’s recent history.
“This unity cabinet was not formed to administer normality. It was brought together to face a national emergency,” Kast stated on Tuesday, underscoring his administration’s aggressive stance on governance. The average age of the cabinet members is 54, with many holding far-right political views.
Marín’s appointment raises urgent concerns among advocates for women’s rights, as her anti-abortion stance could significantly influence future policies regarding gender equality and reproductive health. Observers worry that her leadership may further entrench restrictive measures against abortion in Chile, especially in light of the ongoing legislative discussions.
As these developments unfold, the nation watches closely to see how Marín’s policies will shape the landscape of women’s rights in Chile. With the debate on abortion rights heating up, this appointment could mark a critical juncture for gender equality in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Chile navigates its political transformation under Kast’s leadership.
