Urgent Call for Veto of Peru’s Controversial Anti-NGO Law

Human Rights Watch calls on Peruvian President Dina Boluarte to veto a bill that expands government control over foreign-funded organizations, endangering independent journalism and civil society. The bill, approved by Congress, allows arbitrary penalties against critics and poses significant risks to freedom of expression. Historical inaction by Boluarte on similar bills raises concerns about the erosion of democracy and rule of law in Peru.

Peruvian President Dina Boluarte is urged by Human Rights Watch to veto a newly passed congressional bill that threatens the operations of independent journalists and civil society organizations. The law, approved on March 12, 2025, expands governmental control over organizations receiving foreign funding, potentially allowing for punitive actions against those who oppose the government’s stance. This legislation is seen as part of a broader trend aimed at undermining democratic institutions and judicial independence in Peru.

The bill permits the government to reject and stop projects financed by foreign entities, asserting vague authority over what constitutes “correct use” of funds. The legislation’s definitions are broad enough to encompass legal actions against the state, which could stifle human rights advocacy. Additionally, the requirement for organizations to publicize their addresses and funding plans raises serious concerns regarding the safety of activists and journalists in an already hostile environment.

Amidst the backdrop of decreasing U.S. foreign aid, the bill’s supporters argue it addresses the alleged misappropriation of funds. However, a report highlighted by Epicentro TV indicates that from 2010 to 2020, most suspicious financial activities were linked to illegal mining and organized crime, not NGOs. Critics, including Goebertus, argue that if Congress was genuinely concerned about financial improprieties, it would target these illegal activities instead.

Historically, President Boluarte has refrained from vetoing various bills that compromise rule of law and democratic principles, including legislation that weakens accountability for war crimes and restricts definitions of organized crime. Such inaction raises concerns over the future of civil liberties in Peru. Under international agreements ratified by Peru, restrictions on freedom of expression and association must be limited to specific, legitimate goals and must never be overly broad or punitive.

Human Rights Watch contends that the recent bill contains excessive provisions that contravene international human rights law, allowing for arbitrary suppression of civil society efforts. Goebertus emphasizes that while states have the right to regulate civil organizations to prevent financial misconduct, this law goes beyond that scope and could penalize dissent and hinder independent media operations effectively.

This article underscores the urgent need for President Dina Boluarte to veto the recently passed bill that threatens the operational independence of NGOs and journalists in Peru. It highlights the bill’s vague definitions and broad powers, which could be misused to stifle criticism of the government. The analysis also points to the potential conflicts with international human rights laws and calls for accountability in matters concerning civil liberties and democratic integrity.

Original Source: www.hrw.org