Financial Crime World

Peru’s Backsliding on Human Rights and Good Governance

Worrying Trend in Peru

Lima, Peru - Peru has been undermining its commitment to human rights, gender equality, women’s rights, and media freedom. The country has submitted bills that threaten policy continuity in these critical areas, while local authorities have also joined the fray.

Human Rights Concerns

  • Forced Labor: Despite ratifying all eight of the International Labour Organisation’s fundamental conventions, informality remains rampant in the workforce, with around 76.1% of workers lacking formal employment contracts.
  • Child Trafficking: Cases of child trafficking have been on the rise, particularly in the Peruvian Amazon, with 45% of human trafficking victims being children in 2022.
  • Indigenous Communities: The country’s indigenous communities are facing challenges, with 221 social conflicts reported in March 2023, including protests focused on socio-environmental issues like mining.

Political Instability and Corruption

  • President Dina Boluarte’s Appointment: The recent appointment of President Dina Boluarte has sparked widespread protests, resulting in alleged human rights abuses and the deaths of 67 people (60 civilians and 7 security forces officials).
  • Corruption Levels: Peru’s corruption levels continue to plague the country. Transparency International ranks it as the 8th most corrupt in South America and 109th worldwide.
  • Odebrecht Scandal: The Odebrecht scandal has led to major corruption investigations, with all former Presidents since 2001 being or having been under investigation for corruption or money laundering.

International Support

  • United Nations: The UN is providing critical support to Peru, reporting that 517,000 people have been affected and displaced by recent flooding and landslides, particularly in Lima.
  • Save the Children: Save the Children is leading a £400,000 Start Fund response, a UK-based humanitarian response fund. The UK government has contributed significantly to the fund, recognizing the importance of supporting vulnerable communities in Peru.

Conclusion

As Peru navigates these complex issues, it is crucial that the Government prioritizes human rights, gender equality, and good governance to restore trust and credibility with its citizens and the international community.