The Vulnerability Index in Peru decreased from 38.5 to 35.2 points in the 2013–2024 period, reflecting a 3.3-point improvement driven by gradual progress in access to basic services, health, and education, the
However, the same report notes that significant disparities persist among Peruvian regions.
The Ceplan study also shows that this indicator is highly sensitive to external crises.
During the pandemic, vulnerability rose to 37.5 points in 2022, underscoring the fragility of progress in the face of economic and health shocks.
One of the main findings is that, in 2024, the gap between the region with the highest vulnerability and the one with the lowest level exceeds 40 points.
"This gap confirms that territorial inequalities remain a structural problem. Regions in the Amazon and various areas of the highlands face the greatest challenges, while the central and southern coast show better conditions, linked to greater access to services and stronger economic dynamism," Ceplan explained.
In this context, regional disparities are pronounced. Loreto (58.5 points) and Ucayali (53.4) record the highest vulnerability levels, associated with limitations in basic services, health, education, and child nutrition.
At the opposite end, Moquegua (18.1), Arequipa (21.1), Ica (21.8), Callao (21.9), and Tacna (22.7) post the lowest levels, all below 23 points.
Furthermore, the study warns that no clear territorial convergence process is observed.
Although all regions have improved over time, they generally maintain similar positions, indicating that gaps are not narrowing significantly.
By dimension, the largest gaps are concentrated in basic services and health.
The situation of children and women also remains a significant challenge, while education, despite progress, still reflects inequalities.
In this context, Ceplan notes that economic growth, while necessary, is not sufficient to reduce vulnerability.
In several regions, higher income levels do not translate into better living conditions, reinforcing the need for targeted public policies tailored to each territory's characteristics.
In that regard, the report recommends strengthening a territorial approach to the planning and implementation of public interventions, promoting differentiated actions to sustainably close gaps and improve quality of life.
This study constitutes a key tool for decision-making, as it provides useful evidence to better guide development strategies and move toward a more equitable country.
(END) NDP/MDV/MVB