Violence against minors and youth unrest in Spain and Peru

Recent reports highlight rising concerns regarding violence involving minors in both Spain and Peru. In Spain, significant unrest in Barcelona and Bilbao has led to numerous arrests, with a high proportion being minors. In Barcelona, 89 of the 130 individuals detained for riots and looting were underage, while Bilbao saw 17 arrests following disturbances. Salvador Illa, President of the Generalitat, characterized the actions as “pure and hard delinquency” and warned parents that families may be held financially responsible for the damages caused by their children.

Psychologists have noted that while parents face pressure to monitor adolescents, total control is often impossible during this developmental stage, suggesting dialogue over surveillance.

In Peru, data from the National Survey on Social Relations (Enares) 2024 reveals high rates of violence against children. Approximately 45.9% of children aged 9 to 11 reported experiencing physical or psychological violence from caregivers in the previous year. In Ayacucho, school-based violence reached 58%, one of the highest rates in the country. Experts emphasize that preventing such violence requires establishing clear boundaries without physical or psychological abuse, focusing instead on active listening and emotional availability within the home.