The executive branch announced the measure—adopted on the grounds that the organization was created in a different global context—via a note verbale addressed to the United Nations (currently chaired by Uganda).
However, former Chilean foreign ministers questioned this move, taken at a time when the country faces significant foreign policy negotiations and support from the Global South could be of great importance.
In this vein, former Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Gloria de la Fuente found the decision difficult to explain, given that Chile has been part of the NAM for so many years.
Leaving the group alters a stance in Chilean foreign policy characterized by a strategy of autonomy regarding major powers and the strengthening of ties with Africa, Asia, and Oceania, noted the media outlet *The Clinic*.
Heraldo Munoz, who served as foreign minister during Michelle Bachelet’s second term, described the move as a blunder, noting that remaining in the Non-Aligned Movement entailed no cost, whereas withdrawing could harm the country.
Speaking to *The Clinic*, he cited the example of the upcoming decision on whether Valparaíso will host the High Seas Treaty Secretariat; he pointed out that Chile is withdrawing from a bloc holding many votes at precisely this moment.
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