Gen Z protesters clash with police in Peru amid rising unrest

Hundreds of anti-government protesters clashed with police in Peru’s capital on Saturday, as tensions flared over corruption, organized crime, and a controversial pension reform law. The protest, led by the youth collective “Generation Z,” drew around 500 demonstrators to the city center, where they were met by a heavy police presence.

According to AFP journalists on the scene, protesters hurled stones and sticks while officers responded with tear gas. The confrontation escalated as demonstrators attempted to approach executive and congressional buildings.

“Today, there is less democracy than before. It’s getting worse… because of fear, because of extortion,” said Gladys, a 54-year-old protester who declined to provide her last name.

Another protester, Celene Amasifuen, voiced frustration with the country’s legislature: “Congress has no credibility, it doesn’t even have the approval of the people… It is wreaking havoc in this country.”

Local media outlet Exitosa reported that its journalist and cameraman were struck by pellets, allegedly fired by law enforcement. Police confirmed that at least three officers were injured during the clashes.

The unrest comes amid plummeting approval ratings for President Dina Boluarte, whose term ends next year. Rising cases of extortion and organized crime have fueled public anger, with recent opinion polls indicating widespread distrust in both the government and the conservative-majority Congress.

Adding to the discontent, lawmakers this week passed legislation mandating young adults to enroll in private pension funds—a move critics say ignores the precarious employment conditions many face.

Peru’s protests echo recent waves of youth-led uprisings across Asia, including demonstrations in Nepal, Indonesia, and last year’s mass mobilization in Bangladesh.