Lima, Peru – Hundreds of young people in Lima, Peru staged demonstrations against their President Dina Boluarte, following a controversial pension reform.
The protests erupted after the passage of a law requiring all Peruvians aged 18 and above to join a pension provider.
According to Peru’s national statistics agency, nearly 27 percent of the population falls between 18 and above, making youth one of the most affected groups.
Demonstrators say the system is unfair, especially for young workers in unstable jobs.
The tensions that began since September 20, escalated near their Congress and government buildings, where police clashed with protesters.
Authorities and rights groups reported at least 18 people injured, including police officers and journalists.
However, the unrest is not limited to the youth.
Even different societal groups and individuals have also joined the rallies, voicing frustration over alleged corruption in their government.
Based on the corruption perception index of the Transparency International, Peru ranked 127th among the 180 countries, where the country ranked first is seen to have the most honest public sector.
Meanwhile, the Institute of Peruvian Studies’ July report shows Boluarte’s approval rating to only 2.5 percent, while Congress stands at just 3 percent.