The German Foreign Ministry has expressed growing concern over the escalating political instability in Peru, particularly following the announcement of a potential state of emergency. A spokesperson for the ministry in Berlin confirmed ongoing contact with the German embassy in Lima, focusing on the safety and welfare of German citizens currently residing in or traveling to the Andean nation. The spokesperson urged all political factions to refrain from actions that could further exacerbate the crisis and to return to a framework of constitutional order.
Peru is currently grappling with a deep-seated political crisis following the recent impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte and the subsequent installation of a transitional government. The crisis has been fueled by widespread protests, ostensibly centered on grievances related to the government’s handling of organized crime and illicit drug trafficking. These demonstrations have recently intensified, culminating in a tragic incident on Wednesday where one demonstrator was reportedly killed by police fire, alongside numerous injuries sustained by both protesters and law enforcement personnel.
The unfolding situation casts a renewed light on a security accord initially intended to strengthen cooperation between Germany and Peru in combating organized crime. A memorandum of understanding, signed in February 2024 by then-Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD), outlined plans for negotiations regarding this agreement – specifically, addressing the challenges posed by organized crime and drug trafficking. However, when pressed for an update on the status of these crucial negotiations, a spokesperson for the German Interior Ministry offered no immediate comment, raising questions about the momentum and potential impact of the agreement amidst the current turmoil. Critics suggest that the agreement, while potentially beneficial in the long term, may have been viewed by the Peruvian populace as an imposition, contributing to the erosion of trust in the government and further fueling the ongoing unrest. The situation demands careful and immediate diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions and safeguard the security of German citizens while addressing the underlying political triggers for the crisis.