The former military ruler, General Pinochet, returned to Chile and faced proceedings before the judiciary, which took significant steps to advance his trial. However, in July 2001, the Santiago Appeals Court suspended proceedings against the former dictator on health grounds.
Although the military’s position has become less tolerant, some judges took steps to bring to justice persons responsible for human rights violations that occurred during the rule of the military juntas.
The internal armed conflict continued with the involvement of several African countries and numerous domestic groups. The Government, which controls approximately half of the territory, functioned without a Constitution.
The process of legal and judicial reform, which began in May 1998, has stalled somewhat during the recent period of political upheaval. However, the Constitution has been amended to limit the power of the President and in favour of greater parliamentary control.
At least 64 judges, lawyers and prosecutors were victims of attacks between February 2000 and November 2001. Intimidation against other judicial officers and witnesses contributed to the widespread impunity enjoyed by a wide variety of criminal offenders.
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