| PERU Republic of Peru Republica del Peru Joined United Nations: 31 October 1945 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 05/07/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Lima
29,546,963 (July 2009 est.)
Alan Garcia Perez
President since 28 July 2006
President since 28 July 2006
President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible
for a second term); presidential and congressional elections held
9 April 2006, with runoff election held 4 June 2006
Next scheduled election: April 2011
for a second term); presidential and congressional elections held
9 April 2006, with runoff election held 4 June 2006
Next scheduled election: April 2011
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Javier Velasquez Quesquen
Prime Minister since 12 July 2009
Prime Minister since 12 July 2009
The president is both the chief of state and head of government.
The prime minister does not exercise executive power; this
power is in the hands of the president and is selected by the
president
Next scheduled election: April 2011
The prime minister does not exercise executive power; this
power is in the hands of the president and is selected by the
president
Next scheduled election: April 2011
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Amerindian 45%, mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white) 37%, white 15%, black, Japanese, Chinese, and other 3%
| RELIGIONS |
Roman Catholic 81.3%, Evangelical 12.5%, other 3.3%, unspecified or none 2.9% (2007 Census)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Constitutional republic with 25 regions (regiones, singular - region) and 1 province. Legal system is based on civil law
system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); presidential and
congressional elections held 9 April 2006, with runoff election held 4 June 2006; next to be held April 2011
Legislative: unicameral Congress of the Republic of Peru or Congreso de la Republica del Peru (120 seats; members
are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
Elections: last held 9 April 2006 (next to be held April 2011)
Judicial: Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (judges are appointed by the National Council of the
Judiciary)
system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a five-year term (eligible for a second term); presidential and
congressional elections held 9 April 2006, with runoff election held 4 June 2006; next to be held April 2011
Legislative: unicameral Congress of the Republic of Peru or Congreso de la Republica del Peru (120 seats; members
are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
Elections: last held 9 April 2006 (next to be held April 2011)
Judicial: Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (judges are appointed by the National Council of the
Judiciary)
| LANGUAGES |
Spanish (official), Quechua (official), Aymara, and a large number of minor Amazonian languages
| BRIEF HISTORY |
Numerous indigenous cultures thrived in Ecuador for thousands of years before the Inca conquered the area. The Valdivia
culture in the Pacific coast region is the earliest known Ecuadorian culture. Ancient Valdivian artifacts from as early as
3500 B.C have been found along the coast north of the Guayas Province in the modern city of Santa Elena. Several other
cultures, including the Quituscaras and the Cañaris, emerged in other parts of Ecuador after the Valdivians. There are
other major archaeological sites in the coastal provinces of Manabí and Esmeraldas and in the middle Andean highland
provinces of Tungurahua and Chimborazo. With the archaeological evidence uncovered to date, we know that Ecuador
was inhabited for at least 4,500 years before the Inca arrived, however, many believe that the area was populated even
earlier, possibly as far back as 10,000 B.C. Great tracts of Ecuador, including almost all of the Oriente, remain unknown
to archaeologists; a fact that adds credence to the possibility the country was populated before 3500 B.C. The history of
Ecuador is better known from the point of the Inca expansion than during the Pre-Columbian era, though even after the
Inca conquered Ecuador many holes remain because of the limited recorded history they kept. In AD 1463, the Inca
warrior Pachacuti and his son Tupac Yupanqui began the incorporation of Ecuador into Inca rule. By the end of 15th
century, despite fierce resistance by several Ecuadorian native tribes, Huayna Capac, Topa Yupanqui's son, conquered all
of Ecuador. The Inca ruled the Ecuadorian Kingdoms until the arrival of Francisco Pizarro, Diego de Almargo and a force
of Spanish conquistadors in 1532. During the period of Inca control, the Ecuadorian tribesmen adopted agricultural
practices and the social organization of their Inca rulers, but maintained their traditional religious beliefs and many customs.
Ecuador's indigenous population would suffer far worse under Spanish colonial rule than it did under the Inca. Pizarro set
out on his third expedition during the final months of 1531 from Panama. The expedition would end in the defeat of the
Inca Empire and the Spanish colonization and conquest of Ecuador. He began the campaign with less than two hundred
men while his partner, Almargo, remained in Panama to gather more troops. When Pizarro's expedition finally arrived in
the recently founded Inca capital of Cajamarca, the new Inca king, Atahualpa Capac, was resting at nearby thermal baths
after prevailing in a bitter civil war with his brother. Atahualpa reluctantly returned to Cajamarca with thousands of his best
troops to greet Pizarro. When he went to Cajamarca's central plaza to meet the Conquistador, instead of Pizarro he found
a pompous Fray Vicente de Valverde waiting for him. Promptly after Atahualpa refused to submit to the Catholicism and
Spanish king, hiding Spanish soldiers and mercenaries slaughtered thousands of the Inca defenders and took Atahualpa
prisoner. Within a year of his capture, Atahualpa was executed. Ecuador was part of the Viceroyalty of Peru ruled from
Lima from 1544 until 1720, when it joined the newly created Viceroyalty of Nueva Granada ruled from Bogota.In
October 1820, in Guayaquil, a junta under the leadership of José Joaquín Olmedo declared Ecuador's independence from
its colonial master. García Moreno's conservative reign arguably gave the Roman Catholic Church more power in
Ecuador during the nineteenth century than it had in any other country in the world. Church turned factory during the
transition from Conservatism to Liberalism. After the Liberal Revolution and thirty years of Liberal rule, the Catholic
Church lost much of its hold on Ecuador. After World War II, a recovery in the market for agricultural commodities and
the growth of the banana industry helped restore prosperity and political peace. From 1948-60, three presidents -
beginning with Galo Plaza Lasso - were freely elected and completed their terms.In 1972, a nationalist military regime
overthrew José María Velasco Ibarra for the last time and used the new oil wealth and foreign borrowing to pay for a
program of industrialization, land reform, and subsidies for urban consumers. In May 1997, following the demonstrations
that led to the ousting of Bucaram and appointment of Alarcón, the people of Ecuador called for a National Assembly to
reform the Constitution and the country's political structure. After a little more than a year, the National Assembly
produced a new Constitution. 2001 saw the election of the first Quechua ethnic democratically elected.
Source: Wikipedia History of Ecuador
culture in the Pacific coast region is the earliest known Ecuadorian culture. Ancient Valdivian artifacts from as early as
3500 B.C have been found along the coast north of the Guayas Province in the modern city of Santa Elena. Several other
cultures, including the Quituscaras and the Cañaris, emerged in other parts of Ecuador after the Valdivians. There are
other major archaeological sites in the coastal provinces of Manabí and Esmeraldas and in the middle Andean highland
provinces of Tungurahua and Chimborazo. With the archaeological evidence uncovered to date, we know that Ecuador
was inhabited for at least 4,500 years before the Inca arrived, however, many believe that the area was populated even
earlier, possibly as far back as 10,000 B.C. Great tracts of Ecuador, including almost all of the Oriente, remain unknown
to archaeologists; a fact that adds credence to the possibility the country was populated before 3500 B.C. The history of
Ecuador is better known from the point of the Inca expansion than during the Pre-Columbian era, though even after the
Inca conquered Ecuador many holes remain because of the limited recorded history they kept. In AD 1463, the Inca
warrior Pachacuti and his son Tupac Yupanqui began the incorporation of Ecuador into Inca rule. By the end of 15th
century, despite fierce resistance by several Ecuadorian native tribes, Huayna Capac, Topa Yupanqui's son, conquered all
of Ecuador. The Inca ruled the Ecuadorian Kingdoms until the arrival of Francisco Pizarro, Diego de Almargo and a force
of Spanish conquistadors in 1532. During the period of Inca control, the Ecuadorian tribesmen adopted agricultural
practices and the social organization of their Inca rulers, but maintained their traditional religious beliefs and many customs.
Ecuador's indigenous population would suffer far worse under Spanish colonial rule than it did under the Inca. Pizarro set
out on his third expedition during the final months of 1531 from Panama. The expedition would end in the defeat of the
Inca Empire and the Spanish colonization and conquest of Ecuador. He began the campaign with less than two hundred
men while his partner, Almargo, remained in Panama to gather more troops. When Pizarro's expedition finally arrived in
the recently founded Inca capital of Cajamarca, the new Inca king, Atahualpa Capac, was resting at nearby thermal baths
after prevailing in a bitter civil war with his brother. Atahualpa reluctantly returned to Cajamarca with thousands of his best
troops to greet Pizarro. When he went to Cajamarca's central plaza to meet the Conquistador, instead of Pizarro he found
a pompous Fray Vicente de Valverde waiting for him. Promptly after Atahualpa refused to submit to the Catholicism and
Spanish king, hiding Spanish soldiers and mercenaries slaughtered thousands of the Inca defenders and took Atahualpa
prisoner. Within a year of his capture, Atahualpa was executed. Ecuador was part of the Viceroyalty of Peru ruled from
Lima from 1544 until 1720, when it joined the newly created Viceroyalty of Nueva Granada ruled from Bogota.In
October 1820, in Guayaquil, a junta under the leadership of José Joaquín Olmedo declared Ecuador's independence from
its colonial master. García Moreno's conservative reign arguably gave the Roman Catholic Church more power in
Ecuador during the nineteenth century than it had in any other country in the world. Church turned factory during the
transition from Conservatism to Liberalism. After the Liberal Revolution and thirty years of Liberal rule, the Catholic
Church lost much of its hold on Ecuador. After World War II, a recovery in the market for agricultural commodities and
the growth of the banana industry helped restore prosperity and political peace. From 1948-60, three presidents -
beginning with Galo Plaza Lasso - were freely elected and completed their terms.In 1972, a nationalist military regime
overthrew José María Velasco Ibarra for the last time and used the new oil wealth and foreign borrowing to pay for a
program of industrialization, land reform, and subsidies for urban consumers. In May 1997, following the demonstrations
that led to the ousting of Bucaram and appointment of Alarcón, the people of Ecuador called for a National Assembly to
reform the Constitution and the country's political structure. After a little more than a year, the National Assembly
produced a new Constitution. 2001 saw the election of the first Quechua ethnic democratically elected.
Source: Wikipedia History of Ecuador
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Peru's economy reflects its varied geography - an arid coastal region, the Andes further inland, and tropical lands
bordering Colombia and Brazil. Abundant mineral resources are found in the mountainous areas, and Peru's coastal
waters provide excellent fishing grounds. The Peruvian economy grew by more than 4% per year during the period
2002-06, with a stable exchange rate and low inflation. Growth jumped to 9% per year in 2007 and 2008, driven by
higher world prices for minerals and metals and the government's aggressive trade liberalization strategies, but then fell
to 1% in 2009 in the face of the world recession and lower commodity export prices. Peru's rapid expansion has
helped to reduce the national poverty rate by about 15% since 2002, though underemployment remain high; inflation
has trended downward in 2009, to below the Central Bank's 1-3% target. Despite Peru's strong macroeconomic
performance, overdependence on minerals and metals subjects the economy to fluctuations in world prices, and poor
infrastructure precludes the spread of growth to Peru's non-coastal areas. Not all Peruvians therefore have shared in
the benefits of growth. President GARCIA's pursuit of sound trade and macroeconomic policies has cost him political
support since his election. Nevertheless, he remains committed to Peru's free-trade path. Since 2006, Peru has signed
trade deals with the United States, Canada, Singapore, and China, concluded negotiations with the European Union,
and begun trade talks with Korea, Japan, and others. The US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA) entered into
force 1 February 2009, opening the way to greater trade and investment between the two economies.
bordering Colombia and Brazil. Abundant mineral resources are found in the mountainous areas, and Peru's coastal
waters provide excellent fishing grounds. The Peruvian economy grew by more than 4% per year during the period
2002-06, with a stable exchange rate and low inflation. Growth jumped to 9% per year in 2007 and 2008, driven by
higher world prices for minerals and metals and the government's aggressive trade liberalization strategies, but then fell
to 1% in 2009 in the face of the world recession and lower commodity export prices. Peru's rapid expansion has
helped to reduce the national poverty rate by about 15% since 2002, though underemployment remain high; inflation
has trended downward in 2009, to below the Central Bank's 1-3% target. Despite Peru's strong macroeconomic
performance, overdependence on minerals and metals subjects the economy to fluctuations in world prices, and poor
infrastructure precludes the spread of growth to Peru's non-coastal areas. Not all Peruvians therefore have shared in
the benefits of growth. President GARCIA's pursuit of sound trade and macroeconomic policies has cost him political
support since his election. Nevertheless, he remains committed to Peru's free-trade path. Since 2006, Peru has signed
trade deals with the United States, Canada, Singapore, and China, concluded negotiations with the European Union,
and begun trade talks with Korea, Japan, and others. The US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA) entered into
force 1 February 2009, opening the way to greater trade and investment between the two economies.
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
The Republic of Peru is in a state of ongoing democratization. Led by President Alan García, the executive branch is
attempting to be transparent and accountable. Previously a rubberstamp body, Peru's unicameral Congress is emerging
as a strong counterbalance to the once-dominant executive branch, with increased oversight and investigative powers.
The executive branch and Congress are attempting to reform the judicial branch, antiquated and rife with corruption.
Other important political currents stem from the ongoing investigation of Fujimori-era corruption (notably the
proceedings against Fujimori's former advisor, Vladimiro Montesinos), and an increase in activities by the insurgent
group Sendero Luminoso. The recent trial of Abimael Guzmán has been suspended, due in part to Guzmán's use of it
as a forum for broadcasting Sendero Luminoso propaganda.
After a bitter and often vitriolic campaign, disgraced former President Alan Garcia won with 53.1% of the vote.
Nationalist rival and former coup-plotter, Ollanta Humala, received 46.9%. Mr Garcia, whose first presidency in
1985-1990 was blighted by record-breaking hyperinflation, debt-default, wide-scale corruption and a Maoist
insurgency, says that he's learned from his mistakes.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Peru
attempting to be transparent and accountable. Previously a rubberstamp body, Peru's unicameral Congress is emerging
as a strong counterbalance to the once-dominant executive branch, with increased oversight and investigative powers.
The executive branch and Congress are attempting to reform the judicial branch, antiquated and rife with corruption.
Other important political currents stem from the ongoing investigation of Fujimori-era corruption (notably the
proceedings against Fujimori's former advisor, Vladimiro Montesinos), and an increase in activities by the insurgent
group Sendero Luminoso. The recent trial of Abimael Guzmán has been suspended, due in part to Guzmán's use of it
as a forum for broadcasting Sendero Luminoso propaganda.
After a bitter and often vitriolic campaign, disgraced former President Alan Garcia won with 53.1% of the vote.
Nationalist rival and former coup-plotter, Ollanta Humala, received 46.9%. Mr Garcia, whose first presidency in
1985-1990 was blighted by record-breaking hyperinflation, debt-default, wide-scale corruption and a Maoist
insurgency, says that he's learned from his mistakes.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Peru
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Chile and Ecuador rejected Peru's November 2005 unilateral legislation to shift the axis of their joint treaty-defined
maritime boundaries along the parallels of latitude to equidistance lines which favor Peru; organized illegal narcotics
operations in Colombia have penetrated Peru's shared border; Peru rejects Bolivia's claim to restore maritime access
through a sovereign corridor through Chile along the Peruvian border
maritime boundaries along the parallels of latitude to equidistance lines which favor Peru; organized illegal narcotics
operations in Colombia have penetrated Peru's shared border; Peru rejects Bolivia's claim to restore maritime access
through a sovereign corridor through Chile along the Peruvian border
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
IDPs: 60,000-150,000 (civil war from 1980-2000; most IDPs are indigenous peasants in Andean and Amazonian
regions) (2007)
regions) (2007)
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Until 1996 the world's largest coca leaf producer, Peru is now the world's second largest producer of coca leaf, though
it lags far behind Colombia; cultivation of coca in Peru declined to 36,000 hectares in 2007; second largest producer of
cocaine, estimated at 210 metric tons of potential pure cocaine in 2007; finished cocaine is shipped out from Pacific
ports to the international drug market; increasing amounts of base and finished cocaine, however, are being moved to
Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia for use in the Southern Cone or transshipment to Europe and Africa; increasing
domestic drug consumption
it lags far behind Colombia; cultivation of coca in Peru declined to 36,000 hectares in 2007; second largest producer of
cocaine, estimated at 210 metric tons of potential pure cocaine in 2007; finished cocaine is shipped out from Pacific
ports to the international drug market; increasing amounts of base and finished cocaine, however, are being moved to
Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia for use in the Southern Cone or transshipment to Europe and Africa; increasing
domestic drug consumption
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Peru
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Peru is a multiparty republic with a population estimated at 29.5 million. In 2006 Alan Garcia of the Popular Revolutionary Party
Alliance (APRA) won the presidency in elections that were generally free and fair. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective
control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens; however, the following human rights problems were reported:
The terrorist organization Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso), linked to narcotics trafficking, was responsible for killings and other
human rights abuses.
Click here to read more »
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Peru is a multiparty republic with a population estimated at 29.5 million. In 2006 Alan Garcia of the Popular Revolutionary Party
Alliance (APRA) won the presidency in elections that were generally free and fair. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective
control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens; however, the following human rights problems were reported:
- abuse of detainees and inmates by police and prison security forces;
- harsh prison conditions;
- lengthy pretrial detention and inordinate trial delays;
- pressure on the media by local authorities;
- corruption;
- harassment of some civil society groups;
- violence and discrimination against women;
- violence against children, including sexual abuse;
- trafficking in persons;
- discrimination against indigenous communities, ethnic minorities, and gay and lesbian persons;
- failure to apply or enforce labor laws;
- child labor in the informal sector.
The terrorist organization Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso), linked to narcotics trafficking, was responsible for killings and other
human rights abuses.
Click here to read more »
Peru: Investigate Killings in Chala
State of Emergency Does Not Alter Obligation To Protect the Right to Life
April 6, 2010
(Washington, DC) – Peru should conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation into the killing of 6 civilians during a
confrontation with the police in Chala, Human Rights Watch said today.
On April 4, 2010, approximately 200 members of the police tried to disperse a demonstration of at least 6,000 miners, who had
closed a major highway in Chala, in Caravelí province, according to local press reports. The reports said that demonstrators threw
stones and sticks at the police, and the police used tear gas and opened live fire to disperse the demonstration. According to the
local press reports and non-governmental organizations, the police gunfire killed five demonstrators and wounded about 30 others.
A woman who was not participating in the events reportedly died of a heart attack.
“An independent and impartial investigation is absolutely critical to ensure that those responsible for these killings are brought to
justice,” said José Miguel Vivanco, Americas director at Human Rights Watch.
The demonstrators were calling for the repeal of a presidential decree issued in February that aimed at regulating illegal mining in
Madre de Dios.
Local press reported that on the evening of April 5, demonstrators agreed to end the blockade and to allow vehicles to go by for
two hours in exchange for the release of 28 demonstrators who had been detained after the confrontation. Only one demonstrator,
who allegedly had explosives, remained in detention.
Several government officials said publicly that the Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in the region on April 1 and
suspended certain rights in the expectation of protests over the mining decree. Victor García Toma, Peru’s minister of justice, said
in a televised interview that the demonstration in Chala was a “delinquent act” that was “totally unreasonable” and “has no legal
support.”
“If the government expected demonstrations, it should have issued clear instructions to security forces that efforts to restore order
must be consistent with international human rights standards,” Vivanco said. “Using lethal force to disperse a demonstration is not
permitted simply by declaring a state of emergency. Any use of force must be absolutely necessary and strictly proportionate, even
in states of emergency.”
Click here to read more »
State of Emergency Does Not Alter Obligation To Protect the Right to Life
April 6, 2010
(Washington, DC) – Peru should conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation into the killing of 6 civilians during a
confrontation with the police in Chala, Human Rights Watch said today.
On April 4, 2010, approximately 200 members of the police tried to disperse a demonstration of at least 6,000 miners, who had
closed a major highway in Chala, in Caravelí province, according to local press reports. The reports said that demonstrators threw
stones and sticks at the police, and the police used tear gas and opened live fire to disperse the demonstration. According to the
local press reports and non-governmental organizations, the police gunfire killed five demonstrators and wounded about 30 others.
A woman who was not participating in the events reportedly died of a heart attack.
“An independent and impartial investigation is absolutely critical to ensure that those responsible for these killings are brought to
justice,” said José Miguel Vivanco, Americas director at Human Rights Watch.
The demonstrators were calling for the repeal of a presidential decree issued in February that aimed at regulating illegal mining in
Madre de Dios.
Local press reported that on the evening of April 5, demonstrators agreed to end the blockade and to allow vehicles to go by for
two hours in exchange for the release of 28 demonstrators who had been detained after the confrontation. Only one demonstrator,
who allegedly had explosives, remained in detention.
Several government officials said publicly that the Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in the region on April 1 and
suspended certain rights in the expectation of protests over the mining decree. Victor García Toma, Peru’s minister of justice, said
in a televised interview that the demonstration in Chala was a “delinquent act” that was “totally unreasonable” and “has no legal
support.”
“If the government expected demonstrations, it should have issued clear instructions to security forces that efforts to restore order
must be consistent with international human rights standards,” Vivanco said. “Using lethal force to disperse a demonstration is not
permitted simply by declaring a state of emergency. Any use of force must be absolutely necessary and strictly proportionate, even
in states of emergency.”
Click here to read more »
FREEDOM IN THE WORLD REPORT- 2010
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Free
Overview
In April 2009, former president Alberto Fujimori was sentenced to 25 years in prison for severe human rights violations committed
during his authoritarian rule. A trend toward increasing social conflict continued during the year, as illustrated by a June incident in
which at least 23 police officers and 10 protesters were killed following a months-long standoff over land rights.
Fujimori was extradited from Chile in September 2007, and in December he was sentenced to seven years in prison for ordering an
illegal search of the home of Montesinos’s wife in 2000. Also in December, Fujimori began a lengthy trial for murder and other
more serious charges. The proceedings were initially disrupted by his supporters, but in April 2009 he was sentenced to 25 years in
prison for overseeing death-squad killings and several kidnappings. International observers and local rights groups characterized the
trial as fair and transparent, and hailed the verdict as an unprecedented example of a democratically elected leader convicted of
human rights violations in his home country. Fujimori also pleaded guilty to corruption charges in September. However, as the year
progressed, rights groups expressed disappointment that the Fujimori trial had failed to create momentum in other cases involving
rights violations, and that in fact the number of acquittals increased, including in cases where the prosecution’s evidence appeared
preponderant.
According to the national ombudsman’s office, social conflict, often involving protests driven by local grievances, reached a peak of
288 active and latent disputesin September 2009 before declining to 260 at the end of the year. The largest share involved
environmental issues. Analysts observed that the government’s approach generally relied on reaction rather than mediation and early
intervention.
The year’s most serious case of social conflict stemmed from a packet of decree laws issued in June 2008. Indigenous groups in
Bagua province said the measures would violate their land rights and lead to environmental degradation, and argued that the
government had failed to consult with locals before issuing the decrees as required by law. Two of the decrees were quickly
rescinded, but several more remained in force, and Congress failed to meet its own deadlines for reviewing them. Meanwhile, the
government resorted to harsh rhetoric, including the accusation that foreign interests were behind the dispute, and vowed to use
force against indigenous protesters if necessary.
In June 2009, the government mounted an operation to break up a highway roadblock established by the protesters, resulting in
violence at two sites that left 10 protesters and 23 police officers dead, with one other policeman missing. Over 200 people, mainly
protesters, were injured, including more than 80 with gunshot wounds. Within two weeks the disputed decrees were rescinded, and
the government acknowledged its failure to consult with locals, but it maintained its claim—eventually discredited—that outside
agitators were responsible for raising tensions. At year’s end, multiple investigations into the deaths were ongoing. A commission
appointed to produce an official report on the incident was unable to reach a consensus; a version backed by only four of the seven
members blamed nonindigenous groups for radicalizing the protests and faulted the government merely for communication failures
rather than what domestic and international rights groups described as a fundamentally misguided and inhumane strategy.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 3
Status: Free
Overview
In April 2009, former president Alberto Fujimori was sentenced to 25 years in prison for severe human rights violations committed
during his authoritarian rule. A trend toward increasing social conflict continued during the year, as illustrated by a June incident in
which at least 23 police officers and 10 protesters were killed following a months-long standoff over land rights.
Fujimori was extradited from Chile in September 2007, and in December he was sentenced to seven years in prison for ordering an
illegal search of the home of Montesinos’s wife in 2000. Also in December, Fujimori began a lengthy trial for murder and other
more serious charges. The proceedings were initially disrupted by his supporters, but in April 2009 he was sentenced to 25 years in
prison for overseeing death-squad killings and several kidnappings. International observers and local rights groups characterized the
trial as fair and transparent, and hailed the verdict as an unprecedented example of a democratically elected leader convicted of
human rights violations in his home country. Fujimori also pleaded guilty to corruption charges in September. However, as the year
progressed, rights groups expressed disappointment that the Fujimori trial had failed to create momentum in other cases involving
rights violations, and that in fact the number of acquittals increased, including in cases where the prosecution’s evidence appeared
preponderant.
According to the national ombudsman’s office, social conflict, often involving protests driven by local grievances, reached a peak of
288 active and latent disputesin September 2009 before declining to 260 at the end of the year. The largest share involved
environmental issues. Analysts observed that the government’s approach generally relied on reaction rather than mediation and early
intervention.
The year’s most serious case of social conflict stemmed from a packet of decree laws issued in June 2008. Indigenous groups in
Bagua province said the measures would violate their land rights and lead to environmental degradation, and argued that the
government had failed to consult with locals before issuing the decrees as required by law. Two of the decrees were quickly
rescinded, but several more remained in force, and Congress failed to meet its own deadlines for reviewing them. Meanwhile, the
government resorted to harsh rhetoric, including the accusation that foreign interests were behind the dispute, and vowed to use
force against indigenous protesters if necessary.
In June 2009, the government mounted an operation to break up a highway roadblock established by the protesters, resulting in
violence at two sites that left 10 protesters and 23 police officers dead, with one other policeman missing. Over 200 people, mainly
protesters, were injured, including more than 80 with gunshot wounds. Within two weeks the disputed decrees were rescinded, and
the government acknowledged its failure to consult with locals, but it maintained its claim—eventually discredited—that outside
agitators were responsible for raising tensions. At year’s end, multiple investigations into the deaths were ongoing. A commission
appointed to produce an official report on the incident was unable to reach a consensus; a version backed by only four of the seven
members blamed nonindigenous groups for radicalizing the protests and faulted the government merely for communication failures
rather than what domestic and international rights groups described as a fundamentally misguided and inhumane strategy.
Click here to read more »
3 September 2009
COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Seventy-fifth session
3-28 August 2009
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 9 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
PERU
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the periodic report submitted by Peru, despite the 10-year delay in submission. It also welcomes the
replies to the list of issues transmitted by the State party in advance of its delegation’s visit. On the other hand, the Committee
considers that the report does not address adequately or in sufficient detail all the provisions of the Convention. The Committee
acknowledges receipt of some of the additional information and replies to questions and concerns raised by the experts, which the
delegation had agreed to provide in writing.
3. The Committee welcomes the fact that the State party designated a high-level delegation to submit, elaborate on and discuss the
report. The Committee also appreciates the information provided in relation to the cases submitted under its early warning
procedure.
B. Positive aspects
4. The Committee notes with satisfaction the establishment of the National Institute for the Development of the Andean, Amazonian
and Afro-Peruvian Peoples (INDEPA) on 16 April 2005 as a decentralized public body enjoying financial, operational, administrative
and organizational independence. It notes that INDEPA is responsible for promoting and monitoring compliance with national
policies and coordinating with regional governments in carrying out projects and programmes to promote, defend, investigate and
assert the rights of the Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian peoples and their “development with identity”. It further notes
that INDEPA is a specialized public body recognized as a leader in promoting, protecting, defending and coordinating the cultural,
economic and social development of the Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian peoples, thereby strengthening their cultural
identity.
C. Concerns and recommendations
10. Bearing in mind that the 1993 Constitution recognizes and protects the ethnic and cultural diversity of the Peruvian nation, the
Committee remains concerned that a high proportion of persons among the indigenous peoples and Afro-Peruvian communities
continue to suffer in practice from racism and structural racial discrimination in the State party.
The Committee recommends that the State party combat racial discrimination by drawing up a comprehensive national policy
against racism and racial discrimination. The Committee also calls on the State party to include in its next report indicators on the
enjoyment by the various indigenous peoples and Afro-Peruvian communities of the rights guaranteed in the draft Constitution,
disaggregated by urban or rural population, age and sex.
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COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Seventy-fifth session
3-28 August 2009
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 9 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
PERU
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the periodic report submitted by Peru, despite the 10-year delay in submission. It also welcomes the
replies to the list of issues transmitted by the State party in advance of its delegation’s visit. On the other hand, the Committee
considers that the report does not address adequately or in sufficient detail all the provisions of the Convention. The Committee
acknowledges receipt of some of the additional information and replies to questions and concerns raised by the experts, which the
delegation had agreed to provide in writing.
3. The Committee welcomes the fact that the State party designated a high-level delegation to submit, elaborate on and discuss the
report. The Committee also appreciates the information provided in relation to the cases submitted under its early warning
procedure.
B. Positive aspects
4. The Committee notes with satisfaction the establishment of the National Institute for the Development of the Andean, Amazonian
and Afro-Peruvian Peoples (INDEPA) on 16 April 2005 as a decentralized public body enjoying financial, operational, administrative
and organizational independence. It notes that INDEPA is responsible for promoting and monitoring compliance with national
policies and coordinating with regional governments in carrying out projects and programmes to promote, defend, investigate and
assert the rights of the Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian peoples and their “development with identity”. It further notes
that INDEPA is a specialized public body recognized as a leader in promoting, protecting, defending and coordinating the cultural,
economic and social development of the Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian peoples, thereby strengthening their cultural
identity.
C. Concerns and recommendations
10. Bearing in mind that the 1993 Constitution recognizes and protects the ethnic and cultural diversity of the Peruvian nation, the
Committee remains concerned that a high proportion of persons among the indigenous peoples and Afro-Peruvian communities
continue to suffer in practice from racism and structural racial discrimination in the State party.
The Committee recommends that the State party combat racial discrimination by drawing up a comprehensive national policy
against racism and racial discrimination. The Committee also calls on the State party to include in its next report indicators on the
enjoyment by the various indigenous peoples and Afro-Peruvian communities of the rights guaranteed in the draft Constitution,
disaggregated by urban or rural population, age and sex.
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PUBLIC STATEMENT
7 April 2010
Peru: More deaths as a result of police response to demonstration
Amnesty International is deeply concerned over reports that five people have died as a result of a police operation which was
deployed to control a demonstration by thousands of miners in the south western region of Arequipa which began on Sunday 4
April.
The miners, who work in the unregulated ‘informal’ mining industry, were protesting against legislative measures that they claim
will restrict their activities. The protest consisted of blocking a section of the ‘Pan American highway’ in the district of Chala
which is in the province of Caravelí, Arequipa department.
A local prosecutor reported that following the police intervention five men were killed and one woman apparently died of a heart
attack whilst on a bus that was being held up as a result of the blockade.
Amnesty International recognises the right and responsibility of the Peruvian state to uphold the rule of law and protect its citizens.
However, multiple deaths as a result of the use of firearms by police in law enforcement operations appear to have become an all
too frequent occurrence in Peru. Dozens of people have been killed by police firearms during police operations over the last year as
a result of the government’s failure to ensure that security forces are adequately trained and equipped, which in turn puts police
officials at risk.
There are clear international Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials and Amnesty International
urges the Peruvian state to abide by these Principles when carrying out police operations and when equipping and training its law
enforcement officials. Not to do so will inevitably result in more deaths as a result of police interventions.
Click here to read more »
7 April 2010
Peru: More deaths as a result of police response to demonstration
Amnesty International is deeply concerned over reports that five people have died as a result of a police operation which was
deployed to control a demonstration by thousands of miners in the south western region of Arequipa which began on Sunday 4
April.
The miners, who work in the unregulated ‘informal’ mining industry, were protesting against legislative measures that they claim
will restrict their activities. The protest consisted of blocking a section of the ‘Pan American highway’ in the district of Chala
which is in the province of Caravelí, Arequipa department.
A local prosecutor reported that following the police intervention five men were killed and one woman apparently died of a heart
attack whilst on a bus that was being held up as a result of the blockade.
Amnesty International recognises the right and responsibility of the Peruvian state to uphold the rule of law and protect its citizens.
However, multiple deaths as a result of the use of firearms by police in law enforcement operations appear to have become an all
too frequent occurrence in Peru. Dozens of people have been killed by police firearms during police operations over the last year as
a result of the government’s failure to ensure that security forces are adequately trained and equipped, which in turn puts police
officials at risk.
There are clear international Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials and Amnesty International
urges the Peruvian state to abide by these Principles when carrying out police operations and when equipping and training its law
enforcement officials. Not to do so will inevitably result in more deaths as a result of police interventions.
Click here to read more »
Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Peru, H.E. Jose Antonio Garcia Belaiinde,
at the General Debate of 64th Period of Sessions of the United Nations General Assembly
New York, 28 September 2009
Finally, Mr. President, we wish to give due consideration to an issue also of special interest for Peru, and for developing countries
in general, that is the situation of the migrants.
Peru is an active promoter of the defense of human rights of migrant persons and their families and of the responsibility shared by
the countries of origin and host countries in dealing with this phenomenon. It defends the principle that migrations are a tool of
development.
It is undeniable that migration has been along the history of humanity a factor of development. It has enriched culture and social life
of countries; it has permitted that we make contact with contributions, discoveries and developments that have formed
progressively our modern society. It is necessary to be aware that for host countries the contribution made by migrants, at this
time and in the future, will be the backbone that will support their societies. It is in that measure that should be avoided the
xenophobic and discriminated pressures, which delay the pace of an inevitable integration of the world and of human race.
In Latin America we live a crucial moment for the consolidation of democracy and the promotion of the social and political rights
of our peoples.
Because of that, Peru would like to express its deep concern for the facts happened in a brother country, Honduras, where the
democratic system has been interrupted abruptly. In the current situation, the different measures adopted against the facilities of the
diplomatic Representation of Brazil in that country also deserve our repudiation, which must cease immediately by virtue of the
obligations and the legal tradition of Honduras, as a country respectful of its international duties, and particularly of the Vienna
Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
We make a call for a dialogue that leads to the re-establishment of the democratic system in that country. The return of President
Manuel Zelaya to Tegucigalpa should be used by all the Honduran political forces in order to establish a government of unity and
national reconciliation, according to the San Jose Agreement, that allows, through absolutely peaceful means, to advance toward
free, democratic and transparent elections that guarantee the election of a government respectful of its Constitution, that promotes
national integration and solidarity for all and every Honduran citizen.
Click here to read more »
at the General Debate of 64th Period of Sessions of the United Nations General Assembly
New York, 28 September 2009
Finally, Mr. President, we wish to give due consideration to an issue also of special interest for Peru, and for developing countries
in general, that is the situation of the migrants.
Peru is an active promoter of the defense of human rights of migrant persons and their families and of the responsibility shared by
the countries of origin and host countries in dealing with this phenomenon. It defends the principle that migrations are a tool of
development.
It is undeniable that migration has been along the history of humanity a factor of development. It has enriched culture and social life
of countries; it has permitted that we make contact with contributions, discoveries and developments that have formed
progressively our modern society. It is necessary to be aware that for host countries the contribution made by migrants, at this
time and in the future, will be the backbone that will support their societies. It is in that measure that should be avoided the
xenophobic and discriminated pressures, which delay the pace of an inevitable integration of the world and of human race.
In Latin America we live a crucial moment for the consolidation of democracy and the promotion of the social and political rights
of our peoples.
Because of that, Peru would like to express its deep concern for the facts happened in a brother country, Honduras, where the
democratic system has been interrupted abruptly. In the current situation, the different measures adopted against the facilities of the
diplomatic Representation of Brazil in that country also deserve our repudiation, which must cease immediately by virtue of the
obligations and the legal tradition of Honduras, as a country respectful of its international duties, and particularly of the Vienna
Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
We make a call for a dialogue that leads to the re-establishment of the democratic system in that country. The return of President
Manuel Zelaya to Tegucigalpa should be used by all the Honduran political forces in order to establish a government of unity and
national reconciliation, according to the San Jose Agreement, that allows, through absolutely peaceful means, to advance toward
free, democratic and transparent elections that guarantee the election of a government respectful of its Constitution, that promotes
national integration and solidarity for all and every Honduran citizen.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM SPANISH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
REPRESENTATIVE ORGANIZATIONS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
SUBMITTED TO OMBUDSMAN ON MOTION OF CONSENSUS RIGHT TO CONSULTATION
Lima, May 7, 2010.
Ombudsman Constitutional Commission urges Congress to approve the opinion as soon as getting input from indigenous
organizations. The Ombudsman, Beatriz Merino, after meeting with representatives of Andean and Amazonian indigenous
organizations, urged members of the Commission Constitution of the Congress to approve, as soon as possible, opinion on the Law
of Indigenous Peoples Consultation.
Organisations representing indigenous peoples as the Confederation of Amazonian Nationalities of Peru (CONAP), the Peasant
Confederation of Peru (CCP), the National Agrarian Confederation (CNA), the National Coordinator Communities Affected by
Mining (CONACAMI) and the Interethnic Association Development of the Peruvian Rainforest (AIDESEP), called this meeting to
express their support to the opinion adopted by the Commission of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian Peoples, Environment
and Ecology of Parliament, which passed last Thursday final text of opinion on the matter.
Furthermore, the Ombudsman reiterated the need for the future law develops comprehensive manner the right of consultation
created by the Convention 169 International Labour Organization (ILO), getting the proposal approved by consensus by indigenous
organizations.
Alicia Abanto For his part, Head of the Indigenous Peoples Program of the Ombudsman's People said that the opinion adopted by
the Commission of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian Peoples, Environment and Ecology takes into consideration the draft
Law submitted by our institution, the results of Table No. 3 of the National Coordination and pointed out by the ILO Convention
169. Also, he said, includes the consensus reached by indigenous organizations. "We hope the project follow a similar course
approved by the Committee on Constitution, "noted the official. The Ombudsman's Office, as part of its constitutional mandate, will
continue developing the follow-up on the measures that are linked to compliance with fundamental rights of indigenous peoples of
our country.
Click here to read more »
REPRESENTATIVE ORGANIZATIONS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
SUBMITTED TO OMBUDSMAN ON MOTION OF CONSENSUS RIGHT TO CONSULTATION
Lima, May 7, 2010.
Ombudsman Constitutional Commission urges Congress to approve the opinion as soon as getting input from indigenous
organizations. The Ombudsman, Beatriz Merino, after meeting with representatives of Andean and Amazonian indigenous
organizations, urged members of the Commission Constitution of the Congress to approve, as soon as possible, opinion on the Law
of Indigenous Peoples Consultation.
Organisations representing indigenous peoples as the Confederation of Amazonian Nationalities of Peru (CONAP), the Peasant
Confederation of Peru (CCP), the National Agrarian Confederation (CNA), the National Coordinator Communities Affected by
Mining (CONACAMI) and the Interethnic Association Development of the Peruvian Rainforest (AIDESEP), called this meeting to
express their support to the opinion adopted by the Commission of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian Peoples, Environment
and Ecology of Parliament, which passed last Thursday final text of opinion on the matter.
Furthermore, the Ombudsman reiterated the need for the future law develops comprehensive manner the right of consultation
created by the Convention 169 International Labour Organization (ILO), getting the proposal approved by consensus by indigenous
organizations.
Alicia Abanto For his part, Head of the Indigenous Peoples Program of the Ombudsman's People said that the opinion adopted by
the Commission of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian Peoples, Environment and Ecology takes into consideration the draft
Law submitted by our institution, the results of Table No. 3 of the National Coordination and pointed out by the ILO Convention
169. Also, he said, includes the consensus reached by indigenous organizations. "We hope the project follow a similar course
approved by the Committee on Constitution, "noted the official. The Ombudsman's Office, as part of its constitutional mandate, will
continue developing the follow-up on the measures that are linked to compliance with fundamental rights of indigenous peoples of
our country.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM SPANISH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
Year 6 April. 2010 N ° 57
The Ninth Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the UN, held from 19-30 April in New York, had as its special
theme the development of indigenous peoples and issues of culture and identity. We share some of the interventions of the
Continental Network of Indigenous Women's South Region, within the framework of this meeting.
Organization for Children, Adolescents and Young Ñoqanchiq Quechua - Peru
National Indigenous Organization of Colombia - ONIC
National Coordination of Indigenous Women of Argentina - CONAMI
We also welcome the election of Dr. Mirna Cunningham Kain, Nicaragua's Miskito indigenous leader, as Representative for Latin
America and the Caribbean in the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the UN, on behalf of indigenous organizations, for the
period 2011-2013 . Cunningham's bid was presented on the initiative of the Indigenous Council of Central America - CICA and the
Continental Network of Indigenous Women and promoted by South Region Bulletin Wayra.
Cunningham is Vice President of the Center for Autonomy and Development of Indigenous Peoples (CADPI). A surgeon, teacher
and holds a Master in Public Health. He was a member of the National Assembly of Nicaragua where he served as Minister of
Health and Governor of the North Atlantic Coast. Dr. Cunningham founded and was the first rector of URACCAN, the University
of the North Atlantic Autonomous Regions. Dr. Cunningham also served as Secretary General of the Inter-American Indigenous
Institute. He was also named "Hero of Public Health of the Americas" by the Pan American Health Organization.
In an exclusive interview to our newsletter, held in February, Mirna Cunningham said that if elected would hold a joint concert with
indigenous organizations to be informed about how to use the mechanisms of the Forum, pledging to make visible the proposals
and issues of indigenous women.
They were also chosen Saul Vicente Vasquez, Mexico and Zapotec leader Mirian Masaquiza Jerez, Ecuadorian Quichua as a
representative nominated by the States. See the full list of Members of the Permanent Forum for 2011-2013 at: www.un.org / esa /
socdev / unpfii / en / news.html
Click here to read more>>
Year 6 April. 2010 N ° 57
The Ninth Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the UN, held from 19-30 April in New York, had as its special
theme the development of indigenous peoples and issues of culture and identity. We share some of the interventions of the
Continental Network of Indigenous Women's South Region, within the framework of this meeting.
Organization for Children, Adolescents and Young Ñoqanchiq Quechua - Peru
National Indigenous Organization of Colombia - ONIC
National Coordination of Indigenous Women of Argentina - CONAMI
We also welcome the election of Dr. Mirna Cunningham Kain, Nicaragua's Miskito indigenous leader, as Representative for Latin
America and the Caribbean in the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the UN, on behalf of indigenous organizations, for the
period 2011-2013 . Cunningham's bid was presented on the initiative of the Indigenous Council of Central America - CICA and the
Continental Network of Indigenous Women and promoted by South Region Bulletin Wayra.
Cunningham is Vice President of the Center for Autonomy and Development of Indigenous Peoples (CADPI). A surgeon, teacher
and holds a Master in Public Health. He was a member of the National Assembly of Nicaragua where he served as Minister of
Health and Governor of the North Atlantic Coast. Dr. Cunningham founded and was the first rector of URACCAN, the University
of the North Atlantic Autonomous Regions. Dr. Cunningham also served as Secretary General of the Inter-American Indigenous
Institute. He was also named "Hero of Public Health of the Americas" by the Pan American Health Organization.
In an exclusive interview to our newsletter, held in February, Mirna Cunningham said that if elected would hold a joint concert with
indigenous organizations to be informed about how to use the mechanisms of the Forum, pledging to make visible the proposals
and issues of indigenous women.
They were also chosen Saul Vicente Vasquez, Mexico and Zapotec leader Mirian Masaquiza Jerez, Ecuadorian Quichua as a
representative nominated by the States. See the full list of Members of the Permanent Forum for 2011-2013 at: www.un.org / esa /
socdev / unpfii / en / news.html
Click here to read more>>
Luis Giampietri Rojas
First Vice President since 28 July 2006
First Vice President since 28 July 2006
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| Click flag for Country Report |
Lourdes Mendoza del Solar
Second Vice President since 28 July 2006
Second Vice President since 28 July 2006
Alan Garcia Perez
President since 28 July 2006
President since 28 July 2006
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.
