Brussels, 6 February 2023
EN
E-004068/2022
Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell i Fontelles on behalf of the European Commission
(6.2.2023)
Since the impeachment of Peruvian President Pedro Castillo on 7 December 2022 and the subsequent swearing of new President Dina Boluarte, Peru’s deep political and social crisis has worsened.
The EU has called repeatedly for all political actors and civil society to avoid further escalation and hold a constructive dialogue that could respond to the aspirations of the Peruvian citizens. EU official statements have also reaffirmed the legitimate right of the Peruvian people to peaceful protest and deeply regretted the loss of life in the context of recent violent clashes with police forces. The EU has condemned any excessive use of force by law enforcement and reminded that respect for human rights is essential. It has also stressed the urgency of investigating the facts and establish possible corrective measures.
In this context, the EU welcomed the recent visit by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights to observe the human rights situation. The EU has been and will continue to be a major player and contributor to the strengthening of Peruvian democracy and the defence of human rights, through its development assistance and capacity-building measures. The EU has also deployed electoral observation missions in recent general elections (2011, 2016 and 2021). The EU also intends to mobilize EUR 3.5 million to support two initiatives aiming at strengthening Peruvian democracy: the first will focus on improving Peru’s electoral legal framework and political participation of historically excluded population, while the second will aim at preventing political and electoral conflicts and promote trust in electoral institutions.
The EU is also fully committed to support Peruvian efforts to ensure an inclusive dialogue with the participation of civil society and affected communities as the way out of the crisis.