Chile: Students protest against education budget cuts
On 03 June, Associated Press reported that protests were carried out by thousands of students, teachers, and activists in the city of Santiago against proposed budget cuts by 3 per cent across all ministries by President Antonio Kast’s government including the education sector. Government authorities stated that this move was necessary to improve Chile’s fiscal position. The protesters said that the spending cuts could affect the quality of public education and reduce student support programmes. The protests were organised by student groups and supported by teachers’ unions and other civil society organisations. Meanwhile, clashes occurred between some protesters and police during the march. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds while some protesters threw stones and other objects. Several roads were blocked and some metro stations were temporarily closed because of the unrest. 
(“Protesters clash with police in Chile’s capital over President Kast’s education cuts,” Associated Press, 03 June 2026)

Argentina: Protests against gender violence grow after murder of teenage girl

On 03-04 June, Associated Press and Al Jazeera reported that following the murder of 14 year old girl Agostina Vega in Cordoba province, thousands of people marched across Argentina to protest against gender-based violence. The protests took place under the banner ‘Ni Una Menos’ (“Not One Woman Less”), a movement that was begun in 2015 to raise awareness about violence against women. Protesters demanded justice for Agostina and called for stronger action to prevent gender-based violence. Meanwhile, activists criticised President Javier Milei’s government for reducing funding and support programmes that were aimed at protecting women and victims of gender violence. The protests revived public debate over femicide and the effectiveness of government policies to address violence against women in Argentina.                                                           
(“11 years after one teen’s death sparked massive Argentine protests, a new case shakes the nation,” Associated Press, 3 June 2026; “Argentina erupts in protest against gender violence after teen murder,” Al Jazeera, 04 June 2026)