OAS experts identify structural sexual violence in Peru's Condorcanqui

An expert delegation from the Organization of American States (OAS) has identified sexual violence against girls and adolescents in Peru's Condorcanqui province as a structural problem caused by state neglect. The mission, sent at the request of the Peruvian Judiciary, concluded that existing institutional responses fail to effectively protect minors' rights.

Indigenous leaders from the Awajún and Wampis communities have reported hundreds of cases of sexual abuse, often involving teachers in student residences. Mónica Maureira, Vice President of the OAS MESECVI Committee, noted that the violence is exacerbated by social tolerance, poverty, and institutional fragmentation. In some areas of Condorcanqui, social tolerance toward violence against women and girls is estimated to be near 90%.

Rosemary Pioc, president of the Awajún Women's Council, described the surge in sexual violence as an “epidemic” and a “pandemic.” She criticized the Amazonas Regional Government for insufficient responses and questioned authorities who cited budget constraints as a reason for the lack of action, arguing that the crisis requires results rather than just funding.