The Role of Military Expenditure in the Development Process: Chile 1952-1973 and 1973-1980; Two Contrasting Cases

The study of allocation of resources for military purposes to the Chilean Armed and Police Forces during the last thirty years can be analyzed in two periods: 1952—1973, when inward oriented strategies of economic development prevailed under a democratic regime, and 1973—1980, when the authoritarian government implemented an externally oriented strategy of economic development. Differences in the process of allocation of resources and in the forces affecting the decision-making process will emerge. Also the distinct impact of the military expenditure on development strategies should be clearly noted.

This report is based on the main studies of the process of development during the thirty year period, on our own reconstruction of economic statistical data and military expenditure information available to the public, and on research of the allocation of resources for military expenditure during the democratic regime.