Emergency contraception in Chile: Analysis of public policy according to Walt and Gilson

This study aims to analyze Chile's policy governing access to the emergency contraceptive pill from the perspective of Walt and Gilson's policy triangle. Its purpose is to generate evidence on relevant actors, implementation, activities, and decisions taken. Through a retrospective case study with a qualitative-analytical approach, supported by a literature review, official reports available online, and analysis of relevant documents, an empirical analysis was conducted using a qualitative-descriptive synthesis matrix based on the Policy Triangle. The analysis followed a historical structure organized into four time periods that characterized the political process surrounding the emergency contraceptive pill in Chile. The main results highlight the participation of numerous sociopolitical actors in formulating the public policy to secure access to the emergency contraceptive pill, within a context of persistent ideological tensions. These dynamics were expressed in arguments that at different moments strengthened or weakened the policy process. Although issues were progressively resolved and the policy remains a work in progress, the process contributed to strengthening the reproductive rights of Chilean women. In conclusion, Walt and Gilson's policy triangle, as an interpretive tool, offers concrete opportunities to analyze public policy in health, confirming the importance of interaction among health authorities, politicians, academic groups, and civil society organizations in matters related to health in general and respect for the sexual and reproductive rights of women with the introduction of emergency contraception.