Peru’s Youth Lead Protests Against President Dina Boluarte Amid Pension Reforms and Rising Discontent

Thousands of young Peruvians are preparing for another wave of protests against President Dina Boluarte, just a week after demonstrations in Lima ended in violent clashes that left protesters, police, and journalists injured. The unrest, which reignited on September 20, was sparked by controversial pension reforms requiring all citizens over 18 to join a pension provider. However, the demonstrations reflect deeper frustrations over corruption, economic insecurity, rising crime, and the lack of accountability for dozens of protester deaths since Boluarte assumed office in late 2022 after Pedro Castillo’s ouster.

Recent polling by the Institute of Peruvian Studies highlights the extent of this discontent, placing Boluarte’s approval rating at just 2.5% and Congress’ at 3%. The outrage extends beyond Lima, rattling Peru’s vital mining sector. Hudbay Minerals temporarily suspended operations this week, underscoring the risks to Peru’s position as the world’s third-largest copper producer and a key supplier of gold and silver.

The protests are being led largely by Peru’s youth, who make up 27% of the population. Many are embracing symbols of resistance, including the skull-and-straw-hat emblem from the Japanese manga One Piece. Protester Leonardo Munoz explained the symbolism, likening protagonist Luffy’s fight against corrupt rulers to their own struggle. Students like Santiago Zapata argue that their generation refuses to normalize corruption, violence, and fear, declaring that government leaders should be accountable to the people.

Analysts see parallels with Peru’s democratic backsliding under former leader Alberto Fujimori in the 1990s, as Boluarte’s administration has been accused of undermining judicial independence and consolidating power. Experts warn that these developments could weaken electoral institutions ahead of the 2026 elections. Yet, history shows that mass mobilizations have at times prevented authoritarian overreach in Peru.

The future of the protests hinges on whether youth-led movements can sustain momentum, with many hoping their efforts will once again reshape the country’s political trajectory.