Peru's Young Voices Demand Change Amid Growing Unrest

Peru is witnessing a surge in youth-led protests, with Gen Z taking a stand against President Dina Boluarte's government. The demonstrations, which have spread across the country, are fueled by a mix of pension reforms, deep-seated corruption, and economic instability. The recent protests, which began on September 20, have seen clashes between demonstrators and police, resulting in injuries on both sides. The unrest reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the political establishment, with many young Peruvians expressing frustration over the lack of accountability and transparency. The pension reforms, which mandate all adults over 18 to join a pension provider, have been a major sticking point. However, the protests are also rooted in long-standing issues, including corruption scandals, rising crime rates, and economic insecurity. The killing of dozens of protesters by security forces following Boluarte's ascension to power has further fueled the anger. The youth's involvement in the protests is significant, as they make up 27% of Peru's population. Young protesters like Santiago Zapata have spoken out against the normalization of corruption and violence, emphasizing the need for change. The protests have also disrupted Peru's mining industry, with major companies like Hudbay Minerals temporarily shutting down operations. The protests in Peru are part of a global trend of youth-led demonstrations, with similar movements seen in Indonesia and Nepal. The use of symbols like the skull in a straw hat from the manga "One Piece" highlights the interconnectedness of these movements and their shared struggle against corruption and authoritarianism. The protests are unfolding against a backdrop of democratic backsliding, with concerns about the erosion of electoral institutions ahead of the 2026 elections. However, past protests in Peru have shown that democratic forces can mobilize and bring about change, even in the face of authoritarian control. The sustainability of the protests will be a key factor in their success. As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches to see if Peru's youth will be able to bring about the change they seek.