User:LuisCG11/Project Parrochia

Main article: Wikimania:Wikimania:Expressions of Interest/2027/Chile

Expression of interest: Chile

edit

Abstract/description

edit
 
Santiago de Chile

Imagine the vibrant heartbeat of Santiago, Chile, as it becomes the epicenter of a groundbreaking celebration of knowledge, collaboration, and innovation. We propose hosting Wikimania 2027 in Chile, a country whose tricontinental identity—spanning South America, Oceania (Easter Island- Rapanui), and Antarctica—offers a unique lens through which to explore the vast diversity of culture, geography, and ideas from this part of the world, where the spirit of discovery thrives, and knowledge transcends borders.

Why Chile? Why Santiago?

Santiago, the dynamic capital of Chile, embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. As the largest city in the country, one of the biggest in the continent and a hub for business, culture, and tourism, Santiago welcomes millions of visitors every year. Its excellent connectivity within Latin America and to the rest of the world makes it an accessible and strategic location for an international gathering of this magnitude.

The city’s history and culture are on full display in its historic landmarks, such as the iconic Parque Metropolitano, Santa Lucia Hill and the Historic Center of Santiago. Yet Santiago is not just a city of the past—it’s a city of the future. With a proven track record of hosting major international events, Santiago has demonstrated its capability to orchestrate gatherings that inspire and unite. This, paired with its world-class infrastructure, makes it an unparalleled venue for Wikimania 2027.

Santiago is also a center of learning and innovation, home to prestigious universities like the University of Chile and the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile. These institutions reflect the country’s deep commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge. Furthermore, the city houses international organizations such as the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and major industry players like Google and IBM, positioning Santiago as a nexus of global and regional influence.

A Celebration of Diversity and Collaboration

Santiago embraces diversity and inclusion, values that resonate deeply with the Wikimedia movement. Its welcoming atmosphere reflects a multicultural essence shaped by the confluence of vibrant immigration waves and the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples. The city is a living mosaic where traditions from across Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia intertwine, creating a unique cultural landscape.

Chile’s history is deeply rooted in its Indigenous heritage, with communities such as the Mapuche, Aymara, Rapa Nui and Diaguita contributing invaluable cultural, linguistic, and ecological knowledge. These ancestral perspectives are vital in fostering a more inclusive and enriched narrative of free knowledge, aligning with Wikimedia’s mission of representation and equity. But this is also a reality in Latinamerica, a region that celebrates both its Indigenous roots and the dynamic contributions of immigrants who bring new traditions, languages, and ideas.

By hosting Wikimania 2027 in Chile, we honor the richness of cultural diversity, celebrating the voices of the past, present, and future, and reaffirming Wikimedia’s commitment to inclusivity and the shared human endeavor of building knowledge without borders.

Chile’s tricontinental nature offers an unparalleled narrative for this event. From the Andes Mountains to the distant mysteries of Easter Island and the stark beauty of Antarctica, the country invites attendees to reflect on the vastness of the world and the shared responsibility of building knowledge that reaches every corner of the planet. This is not just about creating knowledge; it’s about creating knowledge at the end of the world, where the boundaries of exploration meet the frontiers of understanding.

A Regional and Global Opportunity

Wikimania 2027 in Santiago will be a celebration of Latin America’s contributions to the global Wikimedia movement, fostering collaboration that extends beyond borders. By highlighting the creativity, resilience, and innovation of volunteers across the region, the event aims to amplify voices and ideas that have long been underrepresented on the global stage.

Under the banner of “Conocimiento al fin del mundo” (“Knowledge at the end of the world”), Wikimania in Chile will showcase how the Wikimedia movement can unite communities, inspire new collaborations, and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse future. This is an opportunity to strengthen ties, share knowledge, and celebrate the power of collective action.

Join us in Santiago, Chile—where knowledge meets the end of the world, and the world meets a bold new chapter in the Wikimedia story.

Organizers

edit

Core Organizing Team

edit

Advisory Committee

edit

In addition, the team is supported by Advisory Committee:

Institutional advisory commitee

edit

Wikimedia Chile has a series of agreements with strategic public and private partners within the national territory. We are in the process of conversation to achieve support and management agreements.

Requirements

edit

Santiago, the Open City – our host city

edit

Santiago, the historic and vibrant capital of Chile, stands as a testament to the country's rich heritage and modern dynamism. Founded in the 16th century, it is one of Chile’s oldest cities and has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's history. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, Santiago's geographical location positions it as a key gateway in South America.

The city thrives as a hub of academic, cultural, and artistic life, home to prestigious universities, world-class museums (like the Museum of Memory and Human Rights and the Chilean National Museum of Natural History), and a diverse array of cultural institutions. Its capability to host major international events, from the Pan American Games to United Nations conferences, underscores its organizational excellence and global appeal.

Venue + lodging

edit

All venues featured have the capacity to host hybrid events, and technical elements are available to carry out transmissions if necessary.

Venue proposal #1 – Centro Cultural Estación Mapocho
edit
  • Location and Significance: Once one of the biggest Santiago rail terminal stations, Estación Mapocho was converted in the early 1990s into a modern cultural centre. It is located in one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the city, where thousands of people gather every day on their way to nearby markets and explore the surrounding heritage areas.
  • Facilities: The Cultural Centre has 33 different spaces available: Plaza de la Cultura (Culture Square), Entrance Hall, large nave (Plaza Alta and Baja), foyer and 9 implemented rooms. It has two elevators, a cafeteria, five ticket offices, 160 parking spaces and 140 square meters of restrooms.
  • Accessibility: It is connected to 2 Metro lines (Lines 2 and 3) and various bus routes that connect with most of the capital's neighborhoods. It has universal accessibility.
Venue proposal #2 – Centro Cultural Palacio de La Moneda
edit
  • Location and Significance: Located under Plaza de la Ciudadanía, in front of the south facade of Palacio de La Moneda, this cultural center has hosted numerous exhibitions and cultural activities since 2006. It also houses the Cineteca Nacional de Chile.
  • Facilities: It has 2 exhibition halls (Andes [east] and Pacific [west]), 5 exhibition galleries, a reading space, and the National Film Library of Chile. It also has restaurants, cafes, the Artesanías de Chile Foundation store and a gift shop.
  • Accessibility: It is located between La Moneda (Line 1) and Universidad de Chile (Lines 1 and 3) stations of Santiago Metro, and being located on the Alameda, one of the main avenues of the city, it has excellent connections with various means of transportation.
Other venue proposals
edit

Other venues that have been considered as potential locations are:

Lodging
edit

Santiago is one of the major cities in Chile and a key metropolis in the South American region. It also serves as a significant tourist hub, with millions of visitors arriving each year.[1] Consequently, Santiago has developed an extensive network of hotels and other lodging options throughout the city.

Hotels
edit

Currently, there are over 250 hotel objects within the limits of Santiago.[2] Out of those:

  • XX have more than 100 rooms,
  • XX have more than 250 rooms, and
  • XX have more than 450 rooms available
Create an interactive map of hotels, venues and airport

Travel + visas

edit
Travel
edit
 
Santiago Airport (terminal 2)

Chile is located on the western edge of South America, making it a gateway to the continent and an accessible destination from various parts of the world. Santiago, the capital, is just 9 to 13 hours away from major North American cities and well-connected to major global airline hubs. Santiago has direct flights to key destinations such as Miami (14 direct flights/week, Oneworld presence), New York (7 direct flights/week, Star Alliance presence), Madrid (10 direct flights/week, Oneworld presence), Sydney (9 direct flights/week, Qantas and LATAM),[3][4] Paris (14 direct flights/week, Air France) and São Paulo (28 direct flights/week, Star Alliance presence). Additionally, Santiago's connections with hubs in Europe, Oceania, and other parts of Latin America provide quick and easy access from anywhere in the world.

LATAM Airlines
edit

LATAM Airlines is the largest airline in Latin America, connecting the region with over 145 destinations across 26 countries on 5 continents. In addition to its extensive route network, LATAM offers code-share agreements with several global airlines, allowing passengers to reach destinations worldwide:[5]

Budget airlines – Sky Airline and JetSMART
edit

Sky Airline is a Chilean ultra-low-cost carrier with its head office in Santiago, Chile, and a strong presence throughout South America. It operates flights to various domestic destinations within Chile as well as international routes across South America. Sky Airline connects:

  • Santiago with several major cities across Chile, including Antofagasta, Concepción, and Punta Arenas,
  • 5 countries in South America, including Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay,
  • Seasonal routes to popular vacation destinations.

JetSMART is another Chilean ultra-low-cost carrier, founded in 2016, and it has quickly become a key player in the region. It offers affordable flights to:

  • Numerous domestic destinations within Chile, such as La Serena, Temuco, and Puerto Montt,
  • International routes to Peru, Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia,
  • A network of regional flights within South America, connecting smaller cities directly without passing through hubs.
Visas and diplomatic presence
edit
 
Visa policy of Chile      Chile      Entry possible with only ID card      Visa not required      Online visa      Visa required
Visa
edit

Currently, citizens of 96 countries can enter Chile without the need for an entry visa for short stays (for tourism or business purposes). Citizens of other countries do require a visa to enter Chile, depending on the agreements between Chile and their home country.[6][7] The visa policy of Chile varies depending on the visitor's nationality and the purpose of their visit.

Chile's visa process is relatively straightforward, with a high approval rate. For those needing a visa, our team will provide each prospective Wikimania participant with a valid invitation letter to support their application. The visa application process typically takes around 20 business days, though it can take longer during peak times or if additional documentation is required by the Chilean consulate.[8]

Diplomatic presence
edit

The Republic of Chile currently maintains 73 embassies around the globe, as well as numerous consular offices in key international cities.

Santiago, as the capital of Chile, is home to a significant number of diplomatic representatives from nations across all continents.

  • Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Holy See, Honduras, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
Currency information
edit
Currency exchange rates
Currency Exchange rate
1 EUR 940
1 USD 830
1 CHF 860
1 GBP 1070
100 JPY 7,50
1 AUD 540
1 CAD 610
1 SEK 82
1 NOK 75

The Chilean peso (ISO 4217: CLP, symbol: $) is the currency of Chile. It is subdivided into one hundred centavos, although centavo coins are no longer in circulation. The coin denominations currently in use are: 10 pesos, 50 pesos, 100 pesos, and 500 pesos. The banknotes used are: 1,000 pesos, 2,000 pesos, 5,000 pesos, 10,000 pesos, and 20,000 pesos.

Facilities + services

edit
Accessibility
edit

Since 2016, Chilean construction law has required all new buildings to be designed to be accessible for people with disabilities.[9] Additionally, older buildings in Santiago have been adapted accordingly.

  • Major travel hubs (such as Estación Central and Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport) and public transport systems (RED and Metro de Santiago) are accessible for people with limited mobility and those in wheelchairs, and many of them also have facilities for the blind or visually impaired.
  • Santiago’s cultural institutions and most of its landmarks are fully accessible, including La Moneda Palace, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center (GAM), and San Cristóbal Hill, among others.
  • While it is generally easy to move around Santiago's historic center, tourists with disabilities should be mindful of uneven cobblestone pavements in some areas.

All Wikimania venues will be fully accessible and volunteers will receive training in helping people with special needs.

Neurodiversity
edit

Large events can be overstimulating, which especially affects neurodivergent people. This is why we want to be very mindful about organizing Wikimania as a sensory friendly event:

  • designated quiet rooms, in which attendees can rest, with dim lightning, fidgets/sensory toys, comfortable places to rest,
  • sensory friendly conference arrangement, with dim lightning and with comfortable sound levels,
  • large sessions and keynotes will be streamed online, so that attendees can make a decision whether they want to participate in them in the main conference room, or in a more calm/private surroundings.
Public transportation
edit
 
A map of Santiago metro system.
 
Tarjeta Bip!

Santiago, the capital of Chile, has a well-developed and extensive public transportation system that serves millions of residents and visitors each day. The city's transportation network includes the Metro, buses, and a growing system of bike lanes and shared scooters.

The public transportation system in Santiago uses the Bip! card for fare payment. The Bip! card can be used on the Metro, buses, and even some suburban trains.

The Metro de Santiago is the backbone of the city's public transportation system. As of 2024, the Metro consists of 7 lines (Lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, and 6) that cover a total of over 140 kilometers, with more than 130 stations across the metropolitan area. The Metro is known for its punctuality, cleanliness, and safety, and it operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays, opening at 6:30 on Saturdays and 8:00 on Sundays and holidays. The Metro is also integrated with other forms of public transportation, making it easy to transfer between buses and trains.

In 2024, the Metro continues to expand with plans for new lines and extensions to existing ones. Notably, Line 7 is under construction and expected to open by 2027, further connecting the eastern and western parts of the city.

The bus system in Santiago, known as Transantiago until it was rebranded as Red Metropolitana de Movilidad (RED) in recent years, is an integral part of the city's public transport. The bus network includes thousands of buses operating on hundreds of routes that reach every corner of the city. In 2024, the RED system emphasizes the use of electric buses, with a goal to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in the city. Buses are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and Wi-Fi, and are fully accessible to people with disabilities.

The RED buses operate under a unified fare system, allowing passengers to transfer seamlessly between buses and the Metro using the same Bip! card, a contactless smart card used to pay fares.

Santiago has been expanding its bike lane network and promoting the use of micromobility options such as shared bicycles and electric scooters. By 2024, Santiago boasts over 400 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes, encouraging residents to use bicycles as a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation. The city also supports several bike-sharing and scooter-sharing programs, which are widely available throughout the metropolitan area.

Hybrid format and remote participation

edit

Chile has the infrastructure to develop a multi-transmission event over the Internet. The country has companies dedicated to providing production, recording and transmission services for events with mobilization and response facilities in case of technical difficulties. Also, Chile has the technological and digital infrastructure to be able to broadcast this event in real time.

Internet connection
edit

Santiago is covered by LTE+ and 5G networks from all the major telecom providers in Chile. The city center offers free Wi-Fi to everyone. It is common in Chile for restaurants, public transport, coffee shops to provide guests with Wi-Fi, and it is also standard in hotel lobbies and rooms.[10]

The standard for internet at event venues is to offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi connections (up to 400 Mb/s) and wired internet in the conference rooms (up to 2 Gb/s).

Safety + security

edit

In general, Santiago is a safe destination. The city has moderate crime rates, a visible police presence, good and affordable medical services, and welcoming and friendly locals. The increase in tourism in recent years has fostered a tolerant and vibrant atmosphere in the city. Civic services in Santiago are well-equipped to handle the challenges that come with being a major tourist destination, from the occasional instance of petty theft to assisting with minor injuries, which rarely occur and are usually related to outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.

We're planning to hire a private security team to protect the common areas of the main event and the parallel activities organized during the week of the event.

We are also planning to offer a shuttle service between the main venue and the area where the hotels are located.

LGBTQ rights & safety

edit

Chile is considered one of the safest countries in Latin America for the LGBTQ population.[11] Chile is ranked 6th in the Equaldex global ranking, being the second country in Latin America with the best index.[12] Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1999 and there are now laws protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2022.

Alternate locations

edit
Gran Valparaíso
edit
Panoramic view of Valparaíso, Artillery Elevator, Chilean Navy Building, Cerro Bellavista, Cerro Concepción

Gran Valparaíso, often called the "Jewel of the Pacific", is a city that exudes charm, history, and creativity at every turn. Perched along Chile’s central coast, its steep hills are adorned with a kaleidoscope of colorful houses, interconnected by a labyrinth of stairways, funiculars, and cobblestone streets. This unique urban landscape, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captures the spirit of a city that has been a cultural and maritime hub for centuries.

As one of Chile’s oldest cities, Valparaíso boasts a rich historical tapestry, serving as a key port during the 19th century and a gateway for global trade. Today, it continues to thrive as a center for art, literature, and education, home to renowned universities and a vibrant artistic community. The city's bohemian spirit comes alive in its murals, festivals, and bustling markets, making it a magnet for dreamers, creators, and explorers.

This city also has hosted prestigious cultural and academic events.

Gran Concepción
edit
Downtown Concepción, Biobío Regional Theater, Campanil and forum Universidad de Concepción, Downtown Concepción Southwest, Palacio de los Tribunales de Justicia de Concepción, Arco Universidad de Concepción

Gran Concepción, nestled along the banks of the Biobío River in southern Chile, is a thriving urban center that seamlessly blends history, culture, and innovation. Known as one of Chile’s most significant metropolitan areas, it is a city shaped by resilience and creativity.

With a legacy rooted in its founding during the colonial era, Gran Concepción has played a pivotal role in the nation’s history, particularly during Chile’s fight for independence. Today, it is a hub of economic and cultural activity, home to prestigious universities, such as the University of Concepción, and a vibrant arts scene that celebrates its unique identity. The city’s cultural institutions, theaters, and museums reflect its deep commitment to education and the arts.

Gran Concepción’s strategic location near the Pacific Ocean and its extensive infrastructure make it a key player in Chile’s economy, fostering trade, innovation, and growth.

Weather
edit

Talking about Chile’s climate is no simple task, given the extraordinary length of the country, stretching over 4,000 kilometers from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the icy landscapes of Patagonia in the south. This vast geographic range results in an incredible diversity of climates, where extremes of heat and cold can be experienced simultaneously in different regions.

During August and September, Chile's climate reflects the transition between winter and spring, offering a complex tapestry of weather patterns across the country. In the north, the Atacama Desert, known as the driest place on Earth, maintains sunny days and clear skies, with cool nighttime temperatures signaling the approach of spring. Moving south to the central regions, including Santiago and the Central Valley, winter rains begin to taper off, giving way to milder days and the first signs of spring, as vineyards and orchards burst into vibrant greenery.

In the southern regions, where the climate is cooler and rainier, August typically brings consistent rainfall that keeps rivers flowing and landscapes lush. By September, while rainfall remains common, temperatures start to rise slightly, and longer daylight hours create a more welcoming atmosphere for exploring the stunning forests and lakes of this area. Meanwhile, in Patagonia, the southernmost region, winter is still in full swing in August, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, by September, a subtle thaw begins, and the landscapes start preparing for the arrival of spring.

Additional

edit

This expression of interest was the result of the work carried out by the "Wikimania 2027" Working Committee, part of the Wikimedia Chile strategic project, which brought together members of the staff and partners of the local chapter in order to discuss and evaluate the presentation of this candidacy.

Hybrid

edit

Santiago is located in the UTC-4 timezone during August and September.

Time zone differences
Local Time (Chile) UTC time New York (EDT) Buenos Aires (ART) London (BST) Cracow (CEST) Dubai (GST) New Delhi (IST) Singapore (SGT) Tokyo (JST)
Thursday, 22:00 Thu 02:00 Thu 22:00 Thu 23:00 Fri 03:00 Fri 04:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 07:30 Fri 10:00 Fri 11:00
Thursday, 23:00 Thu 03:00 Thu 23:00 Fri 00:00 Fri 04:00 Fri 05:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 08:30 Fri 11:00 Fri 12:00
Friday, 00:00 Fri 04:00 Fri 00:00 Fri 01:00 Fri 05:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 09:30 Fri 12:00 Fri 13:00
Friday, 01:00 Fri 05:00 Fri 01:00 Fri 02:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 10:30 Fri 13:00 Fri 14:00
Friday, 02:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 02:00 Fri 03:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 11:30 Fri 14:00 Fri 15:00
Friday, 03:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 03:00 Fri 04:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 12:30 Fri 15:00 Fri 16:00
Friday, 04:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 04:00 Fri 05:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 12:00 Fri 13:30 Fri 16:00 Fri 17:00
Friday, 05:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 05:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 13:00 Fri 14:30 Fri 17:00 Fri 18:00
Friday, 06:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 06:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 12:00 Fri 14:00 Fri 15:30 Fri 18:00 Fri 19:00
Friday, 07:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 07:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 12:00 Fri 13:00 Fri 15:00 Fri 16:30 Fri 19:00 Fri 20:00
Friday, 08:00 Fri 12:00 Fri 08:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 13:00 Fri 14:00 Fri 16:00 Fri 17:30 Fri 20:00 Fri 21:00
Friday, 09:00 Fri 13:00 Fri 09:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 14:00 Fri 15:00 Fri 17:00 Fri 18:30 Fri 21:00 Fri 22:00
Friday, 10:00 Fri 14:00 Fri 10:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 15:00 Fri 16:00 Fri 18:00 Fri 19:30 Fri 22:00 Fri 23:00
Friday, 11:00 Fri 15:00 Fri 11:00 Fri 12:00 Fri 16:00 Fri 17:00 Fri 19:00 Fri 20:30 Fri 23:00 Sat 00:00

References

edit

[[Category:Wikimania 2027 expressions of interest]] [[Category:Wikimania 2028 expressions of interest]]