Peru’s APEC Summit Highlights Presidential Unpopularity Amid Protests

Peru hosts the APEC summit amid significant protests against President Dina Boluarte, whose popularity has plummeted to 4%. Citizens express outrage over rising crime rates and government ineffectiveness, staging demonstrations during the arrival of international leaders. The current unrest highlights the disconnect between Boluarte’s administration and the public’s pressing concerns, as Peru struggles with both internal conflict and the pressures of international proceedings.

Peru is currently in the international spotlight as it hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, but the event is overshadowed by the country’s deepening political crisis. President Dina Boluarte, who has seen her public approval plummet to a mere 4%, faces widespread protests from citizens dissatisfied with her government’s inaction against escalating crime rates. These protests coincided with the arrival of world leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the stark contrast between the celebratory atmosphere of the summit and the unrest on the streets. Protesters accused the Boluarte administration of indifference towards a surge in violent crime perpetrated by local gangs, which has instilled fear among the populace, particularly in Lima’s poorer neighborhoods. To prevent demonstrations from disrupting the APEC summit, the government declared non-working days, essentially shutting down the city. However, this heavy-handed approach has not quelled the anger; citizens continue to raise their voices against a president they feel has failed to represent them following the turmoil of her predecessor’s regime. Despite her low profile in recent months, Boluarte has attempted to project a sense of leadership during this high-profile global event. However, for many Peruvians, her presence is merely a façade, a way to gloss over the very real issues affecting their lives. This disconnect was palpable, with many protesters carrying signs demanding accountability and change, marking a clear signal to the international community of the discontent brewing beneath the surface.

Peru is currently experiencing significant political turmoil, marked by widespread dissatisfaction with President Dina Boluarte. Since assuming the presidency after Pedro Castillo’s ousting, Boluarte has struggled to maintain public favor due to a combination of violent protests and crime rate increases. The APEC summit, attended by numerous world leaders, serves as a dual symbol of Peru’s international significance and its domestic instability. Protesters have taken this opportunity to voice their grievances, reflecting the public’s urgent call for action and reform.

In summary, while the APEC summit represents an opportunity for Peru to shine on a global stage, it simultaneously reveals the cracks in the nation’s political landscape. President Dina Boluarte’s abysmal approval ratings and the eruption of protests against her government underscore a critical disconnect between leadership and the public’s needs. The events in Lima serve as a stark reminder of the social issues that persist, demanding attention long after the world leaders have departed.

Original Source: apnews.com