Peru’s Shadow Pandemic: Why Sexual Violence Cases Are Surging and What It Means for the Future
Imagine a country where, on average, 37 sexual assaults are reported every single day. This isn’t a dystopian future; it’s the current reality in Peru, and the numbers are escalating at an alarming rate. With a staggering 6,677 cases reported in the first half of 2025 – already exceeding the total for 2020 – Peru is facing a crisis of sexual violence that demands urgent attention and a fundamental shift in societal norms.
The Alarming Rise in Reported Cases
The statistics paint a grim picture. From 10,251 complaints in 2021, Peru has witnessed a consistent year-on-year increase: 11,630 in 2022, 12,524 in 2023, and a peak of 12,924 in 2024. Experts, like engineer Juan Carbajal, predict this upward trend will continue, potentially reaching a new historical high in 2025. This isn’t simply a matter of increased reporting; it reflects a deeply rooted and worsening problem. Metropolitan Lima remains the epicenter, accounting for the largest number of complaints (1,584), followed by Arequipa, Cusco, and La Libertad. However, the issue permeates the entire nation, with even the departments reporting the fewest cases still facing a significant challenge.
Key Takeaway: The consistent increase in reported sexual violence cases in Peru signals a systemic failure in prevention and response mechanisms, demanding immediate and comprehensive action.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
While sexual violence affects individuals of all ages and genders, the most vulnerable populations in Peru are overwhelmingly girls and adolescents. Between January and June 2025, 3,857 cases involved this demographic, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures and education. Women aged 18-59 represent the next largest group (2,383 cases), followed by women over 60 (49). Importantly, male victims are also represented, with 316 cases among children and adolescents, 71 among adult men, and one case involving a man over 60. This demonstrates that sexual violence is not confined by gender, though the disproportionate impact on women and girls is undeniable.
Did you know? Approximately one in three cases of sexual violence in Peru goes unreported, according to estimates from the Flora Tristán Center, meaning the actual number of incidents is likely far higher.
The Intertwined Factors Fueling the Crisis
The surge in sexual violence isn’t occurring in a vacuum. Several interconnected factors are contributing to this crisis. Rocío Gutiérrez, director of Manuela Ramos, points to the erosion of comprehensive sexual education as a key driver. The removal of such content from curricula reinforces harmful stereotypes, perpetuates conservative views on women’s freedoms, and normalizes gender-based violence. This is compounded by a disturbing trend revealed by the National Survey of Social Relations: a staggering 70% of the Peruvian population justifies or minimizes sexual violence. This alarming level of social tolerance underscores a deeply ingrained cultural problem.
Furthermore, the ongoing political instability in Peru exacerbates the situation. The neglect of the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations, coupled with the systematic obstruction of gender equity initiatives by Congress, sends a dangerous message. The “fusion” – or effective dismantling – of the Ministry of Women, along with measures denying inclusive language and even criminalizing victims who come forward, actively hinders progress.
The Future Landscape: What to Expect
Without significant intervention, the trajectory of sexual violence in Peru is likely to worsen. We can anticipate several key developments:
Increased Strain on Support Systems
The continued rise in cases will overwhelm existing resources, such as Line 100 and the CEM (Comprehensive Care Centers). Increased funding and expansion of these services are crucial, but they are merely reactive measures.
Growing Distrust in Institutions
If the state continues to fail in its prevention and response efforts, public trust in law enforcement and the justice system will further erode, leading to even lower reporting rates and a cycle of impunity.
Escalation of Femicide Rates
The link between sexual violence and femicide is undeniable. With 78 femicides and 133 attempted femicides reported in the first half of 2025, and a disturbing pattern of perpetrators being close to their victims (42% of femicide victims were in a relationship with their aggressor), we can expect this extreme form of gender-based violence to continue to rise without proactive intervention.
Regional Disparities Will Widen
Departments with limited resources and weaker institutional capacity, like those with lower reported case numbers, will likely experience a disproportionate impact, further exacerbating existing inequalities.
Expert Insight: “The figures show the failure of the State in its prevention policies,” warns Liz Meléndez, Executive Director of the Flora Tristán Center. “We are talking about sexual violation, the most serious way of rape, but there is another figure that includes touching and harassment that is also spooky.”
What Can Be Done? A Path Forward
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted, comprehensive strategy:
Prioritize Comprehensive Sex Education
Reinstating and strengthening comprehensive sexual education in schools is paramount. This education must go beyond biology and address consent, healthy relationships, gender equality, and the prevention of violence.
Strengthen Public Institutions
Investing in and empowering public institutions with a gender-based approach is essential. This includes providing adequate funding, training personnel, and ensuring accountability.
Improve Victim Support Services
Expanding access to Line 100 and CEMs, as well as providing specialized support services for survivors, is crucial. These services must be culturally sensitive and accessible to all, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.
Address Societal Norms
Challenging harmful societal norms and promoting gender equality requires a long-term commitment to public awareness campaigns, media literacy initiatives, and community-based interventions.
Political Will and Legislative Reform
Strong political will and legislative reform are essential to ensure that gender equity is prioritized and that laws are enacted to protect vulnerable populations.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual violence, reach out for help. Line 100 provides free, confidential support 24/7. You can also find a CEM near you: Check here the location and telephone number of the CEM of each department.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Line 100?
Line 100 is a free, 24/7 hotline in Peru that provides guidance, support, and psychological assistance to victims of gender-based and childhood violence. Complaints can be made anonymously.
What are CEMs?
CEMs (Centros de Empoderamiento de la Mujer) are Comprehensive Women’s Empowerment Centers that offer multidisciplinary attention, legal advice, and social support to victims of violence.
Why is sexual violence so prevalent in Peru?
A combination of factors, including the erosion of comprehensive sex education, harmful societal norms, political instability, and a lack of adequate resources for prevention and response, contribute to the high rates of sexual violence in Peru.
How can I help?
You can support organizations working to combat gender-based violence, advocate for policy changes, and challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors in your own community. Raising awareness and speaking out against violence are also crucial steps.
The crisis of sexual violence in Peru is a complex and deeply troubling issue. Addressing it requires a collective effort, a commitment to systemic change, and a unwavering dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals. The future of Peruvian society depends on it. What steps will you take to contribute to a safer, more equitable future?
