Update on Social Unrest in Peru

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Update on Social Unrest in Peru

Context

On Thursday, January 19, nationwide demonstrations were called by labor unions, such as the General Confederation of Peruvian Workers (CGTP) and other groups, to demand the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, the closing of Congress, an early general election and the calling of a Constituent Assembly.

The so-called Takeover of Lima began at 4 pm with peaceful marches, but escalated into confrontations between police and demonstrators, which resulted in a large fire near the Plaza San Martin, the epicenter of the large anti-government demonstration in the Peruvian capital. The recent protests movement was sparked by the ouster of former President Pedro Castillo in December and powered by dissatisfaction with authorities and politicians.

The most recent confrontations caused by the State of Emergency decreed by the Government on January 15 for 30 days. During the last few weeks, there has been a scenario of political and social instability in which escalating levels of violence have become increasingly frequent. Social organizations have denounced an excessive use of force by the police, while Peruvian officials have not made public details about those killed in the unrest. President Boluarte mentioned that situation in the country was under control, called for dialogue, and vowed to prosecute those responsible for the violence.

What Will Happen Next?

President Dina Boluarte ruled out her resignation, mentioning that the Government is solid and they are willing to dialogue with the political and social sectors demanding her resignation as well as the closing of Congress.
New protests on Friday and in the upcoming days are very likely to expect. Also, clashes between police and demonstrators could escalate into high levels of violence.
Some demonstrators targeted private installations as stores and facilities could be seriously affected during protests. According to Reuters, Canada-based miner Hudbay said in a statement that protesters had entered the site of its Peru unit, damaging and burning machinery and vehicles.
The protests have escalated to such a degree that demonstrators are unlikely to be satisfied with Boluarte's resignation and are now demanding more fundamental structural reform.
President Boluarte's call for dialogue will be a key point in de-escalating the levels of violence. This will require articulation with political sectors and social organizations promoting the demonstrations.