Peru leaders propose strategies to combat rising insecurity

Business leaders, civil society, and the Peruvian government have convened to present proposals aimed at combating rising insecurity. Raúl Barrios, president of the CCL, emphasized that insecurity is a critical issue affecting both citizens and economic activity, noting that attracting investment requires stability, strong institutions, and the rule of law.

David Ojeda, head of the National Security and Defense Secretariat (SEDENA), stated that organized crime has evolved into a system that infiltrates legal channels and disputes territorial control with the State. He noted that extortion directly hinders economic growth and job creation.

Economic data presented in Lima indicates that insecurity costs the Peruvian economy approximately $11.8 billion annually. Furthermore, 45% of Peruvians report knowing local businesses that have closed due to crime. Experts suggest that addressing the crisis requires firm political leadership, institutional cleaning, and strategies similar to those used in El Salvador to regain control of penitentiaries and combat corruption.