Background on Dina Boluarte and the Protests
Dina Boluarte, a 63-year-old Peruvian politician, is currently under investigation by the fiscalía for alleged illicit enrichment. This controversy has fueled protests led by Generation Z, a demographic making up 27% of Peru’s population. These young protesters, who are digital natives, have taken to the streets to demand a corruption-free future in Peru, which has experienced six presidents since 2018.
Origins of the Protests
The initial protests began as a response to a contentious pension reform. Despite the government’s retreat on this issue, demonstrations persisted, reflecting frustration with Boluarte’s persistently low popularity ratings of 2% to 4%, according to recent polls.
Key Players and Stakeholders
Santiago Zapata, a 22-year-old university student and protester, expressed his dissatisfaction: “We’re forced to march and protest because we’re tired of things being normalized.”
The previous protest resulted in at least 14 injuries among demonstrators and 12 injuries among police officers, as reported by authorities. The police defended their use of force, including tear gas and rubber bullets, citing the need to prevent protesters from reaching the Congress and Government Palace.
Impact on Peruvian Society
Jo-Marie Burt, principal advisor at the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) and Princeton University professor, commented to Reuters: “It’s crucial whether these protests can sustain momentum over time.” She also expressed concerns about the apparent indifference of security forces and the government towards the use of violent force to suppress protests.
Upcoming Elections and Social Conflicts
Peru will hold presidential and legislative elections in April 2026, aiming to resolve ongoing social conflicts affecting the country’s primary economic sector, mining. Hudbay Minerals, a Canadian company, temporarily closed its copper mine in Peru following local residents’ protests demanding economic benefits.
Youth Perspectives
David Ortíz, a 24-year-old content creator and poet, shared his pessimistic outlook: “I’m unsure if we can move towards a better or worse future. Honestly, I don’t feel there are high chances for a high quality of life here.”
Allegations Against President Boluarte
Boluarte faces accusations of illicit enrichment linked to the misuse of luxury Rolex watches. She also faces charges related to the deaths of over 50 individuals during clashes between protesters and security forces in social protests following her assumption of power after the ousting and arrest of the previous president.
Boluarte denies all allegations and has maintained her position with the support of Congress, which analysts suggest has enacted laws favoring powerful groups.
Burt concluded, “Even when authoritarian systems exert near-total control, democratic forces can still mobilize unexpectedly for positive outcomes. The opera is far from over.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Dina Boluarte? Dina Boluarte is a 63-year-old Peruvian politician currently serving as the President of Peru, facing investigations for alleged illicit enrichment and other accusations.
- What sparked the protests? The protests began as a response to a contentious pension reform but evolved into broader demonstrations against President Boluarte’s persistently low popularity and allegations of corruption.
- What are the concerns of Peru’s Generation Z? This demographic is demanding a corruption-free future in Peru, expressing frustration with the current political climate and low quality of life prospects.
- What is the significance of the “One Piece” flag in the protests? The “One Piece” flag, a symbol of youth resistance in Nepal and Indonesia, has become an emblem for Peru’s Generation Z protesters.
- What are the upcoming elections in Peru? Peru will hold presidential and legislative elections in April 2026, aiming to resolve ongoing social conflicts and stabilize the economy.
