Clashes Erupt in Peru as Hundreds Protest Against Government Corruption and Pension Reforms

Tear gas and stones fly as youth-led “Generation Z” demonstration confronts police amid rising social unrest in Peru

Hundreds of anti-government demonstrators clashed with police in the Peruvian capital, Lima, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, as tensions over corruption, organized crime, and a controversial pension reform boiled over. It was reported that protesters threw stones and sticks, while officers responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The protest, organized by a youth collective known as “Generation Z,” drew roughly 500 participants to the city center, where security forces maintained a heavy presence. Demonstrators attempted to march toward executive and congressional buildings, triggering violent confrontations.

“Today, there is less democracy than before. It’s getting worse… because of fear, because of extortion,” said 54-year-old protester Gladys, who declined to provide her last name. Another demonstrator, Celene Amasifuen, added, “Congress has no credibility. It doesn’t even have the approval of the people… It is wreaking havoc in this country.”

The radio station Exitosa reported that one of its reporters and a cameraman were injured by law enforcement’s pellet-fired projectiles. Police confirmed that at least three officers were wounded in the clashes.

President Dina Boluarte’s approval ratings have fallen sharply amid rising cases of extortion and organized crime. Public opinion polls suggest that many Peruvians view the government and the conservative-majority Congress as corrupt institutions. The unrest intensified this week after the legislature passed a law requiring young adults to enroll in private pension funds, despite the precarious economic conditions faced by many workers.

The demonstrations reflect growing dissatisfaction with Peru’s political system and the challenges faced by young citizens in a country grappling with institutional corruption and social inequality.

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