Peru’s capital, Lima, was gripped by fresh unrest over the weekend as police clashed with young anti-government protesters in demonstrations branded the “Gen Z March.”
According to human rights group CNDDHH, at least 18 protesters were injured, while authorities confirmed that a police officer suffered burns. The protests, held on September 20–21, drew mostly young people under 30, along with bus and taxi drivers frustrated by rising insecurity and extortion.
Anger Over Pensions, Corruption, and Insecurity
The unrest was triggered by a pension reform passed earlier this month, requiring young people to contribute to private pension funds. But the grievances run deeper, touching on corruption scandals, violent crime, and low trust in leadership.
“We are marching against corruption, for life, and against the crime that is killing us every day,” said 28-year-old protester Adriana Flores.
Transport workers also joined the demonstrations, accusing gangs like the Venezuela-based Tren de Aragua of extorting drivers with “protection money,” while police allegedly look the other way.
A Nation Disillusioned
Protesters marched towards Congress, chanting “united for the Peru we deserve” and even singing the national anthem at security barriers. Many criticized lawmakers for enriching themselves while ignoring ordinary citizens.
“These people raise their own salaries, they kill us like flies, and don’t care about anything. We need a total change,” one young woman told local outlet RPP.
President Dina Boluarte, who assumed office in 2022 after her predecessor’s impeachment, faces record-low approval ratings. Her decision in July to double her salary only deepened public outrage.
Heavy-Handed Policing?
While some protesters threw stones and tried to breach security barriers, rights groups condemned the police response as excessive.
“There was no justification for firing large amounts of tear gas, much less for attacking people,” said CNDDHH lawyer Mar Perez.
Looking Ahead
Boluarte’s term is set to end in July 2026, but growing unrest suggests she may face mounting pressure to step aside sooner. For Peru’s Gen Z activists, these protests mark a turning point in their demand for accountability, security, and a future free from corruption.
