In the heart of Lima, Peru, a wave of anti-government protests erupted ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, which is set to take place on Friday. Activists have directed their frustration towards President Dina Boluarte and the hosting of the APEC. The unrest aligns with the arrival of significant global leaders, including President Joe Biden from the United States and Xi Jinping from China. Protesters voiced their dissent through the burning of American flags and chants like “Get out, imperialist Yankees,” signifying their opposition to what they perceive as economic exploitation by foreign powers. The slogans and banners displayed by the activists accused APEC participants of being “trash looters” and “accomplices to dictatorship,” pointing to their feeling that international dealings primarily favor the elite and worsen the socio-economic divide in Peru.
Contention has been brewing in Peru, especially following a strike organized by transport unions that called for stronger measures against organized crime. This unrest gained momentum when the General Confederation of Workers of Peru, the country’s largest labor union, supported the strike, amplifying frustrations surrounding public security in the nation. Protesters articulated their grievances, with voices like Madeleine Rojas expressing deep frustration over a system they feel is designed for extortion rather than the public good. Activists believe that the current state of affairs has left Peru’s international image tarnished, fueling their demonstrations during a time when world leaders are spotlighting the nation.
Walter Carrera, president of the National Association of Transporters (Asotrani), joined the chorus of dissent by highlighting the pervasive crisis in the country. He called upon the international community to note the dire circumstances, indicating that governmental policy has failed to adequately combat organized crime and insecurity. The unrest was further fueled by perennial issues of crime and inequality, which protesters argue have worsened amidst elite-driven international economic dealings. Many protest attendees feel that these alliances with powerful countries contribute to a cycle of growing discontent and desperation among the poorer segments of society.
The protestors aimed to make their voices heard at the Lima Convention Center, where the APEC meetings are occurring, but faced a formidable police presence intent on keeping them at bay. Authorities prepared for potential disruptions by deploying 13,000 police officers to secure the area and maintain order during the high-profile summit. These measures highlight the alarming tensions within the country, as citizens express discontent with their government while international attention arrives in their capital. Clashes erupted on the streets as officers prevented protesters from advancing toward the convention venue, signifying the brewing conflict between governmental authority and public sentiment.
Critics of Boluarte’s government remarked on the protests being a strategic move to draw global attention to Peru’s internal turmoil. Statements from protesters highlighted their desire for world leaders like Biden and Xi to witness firsthand the struggles faced by ordinary Peruvians under Boluarte’s administration. This desire for visibility against the backdrop of a global summit emphasizes the intersection of national issues with international politics, suggesting that the voices of protest hold a longing for justice and acknowledgment on a broader stage.
Despite the ongoing tensions and unrest, the Peruvian government remained steadfast in its commitment to ensure that the APEC summit would proceed as planned. They projected a facade of stability, unfazed by the burgeoning protests outside the event. Nevertheless, the protests represent a significant moment in Peru’s socio-political landscape, illuminating the rift between government policies and public demand for reform. The clash of ideals and demands during this pivotal moment suggests that the future of Peru’s sociopolitical climate remains uncertain, as challenges to authority grow in the midst of global dialogues on economic cooperation.