Chile: Electoral Reforms Replace Pinochet-Era Legislation
Chile approved major changes in its electoral system put into place by former dictator Augusto Pinochet. Among the modifications approved as part of the reform and signed into law by President Michele Bachelet are gender quotas for political parties to strengthen women's participation in the political process. The Pinochet-era legislation was designed to favor conservative forces and reduce the presence of left-wing parties. teleSUR