Skulls, Manga, and Protests: How Peru’s Gen Z is Taking on President Dina Boluarte’s Government | World News

Young Peruvians took to the streets Saturday for another round of protests against President Dina Boluarte, a week after clashes in the capital left over a dozen police officers, protesters, and journalists injured, reports Reuters.

Pension Reforms Spark Unrest

The demonstrations began on September 20 after reforms required all Peruvians over 18 to join a pension provider. But the unrest also reflects broader anger over corruption, economic insecurity, and government accountability, including the deaths of dozens of protesters when Boluarte assumed office in late 2022 after former President Pedro Castillo’s removal.

“There’s been a low, simmering level of discontent in Peru for quite some time,” said Jo-Marie Burt, a Princeton University visiting professor specializing in Latin American politics.

Low Approval Ratings

A July report by the Institute of Peruvian Studies showed Boluarte’s approval rating at just 2.5%, with Congress at 3%. The unrest has also affected Peru’s mining industry; Hudbay Minerals temporarily shut down its Peruvian mill amid ongoing protests. Peru is the world’s third-largest copper producer and a major gold and silver producer.

Gen Z Takes the Lead

Peru’s protests mirror youth movements in countries like Indonesia and Nepal. Many demonstrators use a skull in a straw hat, inspired by the Japanese manga One Piece, symbolizing resistance against corrupt rulers.

“The main character, Luffy, travels town to town freeing people from tyrannical, corrupt rulers,” said protester Leonardo Munoz, adding, “That’s what is happening now in Peru.”

About 27% of Peru’s population is between 18 and 29, according to national statistics. Student protester Santiago Zapata said, “My generation is coming out because we are tired of being silenced, made to feel afraid when the government we elected should fear us.”

Wider Democratic Concerns

Burt noted the protests occur amid broader democratic pressures globally and cited attempts by the Boluarte administration to weaken courts and watchdogs. She drew parallels with the 1990s under former President Alberto Fujimori, when institutions were captured to consolidate authoritarian control.

“Democratic forces can mobilise even under authoritarian pressure,” Burt said, adding, “The opera is not over yet.”