highlighted that over the past decade, Peruvians' support for democracy has remained high, as they consider it very important and the preferred way to govern the country.
This support exists despite dissatisfaction with the functioning of the democratic regime, representative institutions, and the political system as a whole.
The
report, based on data from the National Household Survey (ENAHO), shows that democracy is very important or important for the majority of the population (an average of 80%).
Likewise, more than 60% state that a democratic government is always preferable.
However, the percentage of Peruvians who believe that democracy works well/very well has declined from 40% to 20%.
Similarly, trust in Congress and political parties has shown a constant decline since 2013.
Citizenry and the political system
The report also shows that, despite notable progress in poverty reduction over the past two decades, Peru faces challenges, as reflected in people's dissatisfaction with the functioning of the political system.
The study highlights a survey conducted by the UNDP, in collaboration with the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru's Latin American Human Development Institute (IDHAL), which reveals that, on average, people consider the State necessary to live well.
However, citizens perceive shortcomings in its performance, particularly regarding security, protection against abuse of power, equal treatment, and the ability to listen to and address people's concerns.
This situation, the report underscores, hinders consensus-building, collective action, and active citizen participation.
Likewise, it is noted that between 2001 and 2021, Peru showed democratic progress, but distributive outcomes remained limited compared to other Latin American countries.
The UNDP study also reveals that people perceive a weak connection between the political system and citizenry; few people believe the country is governed in the general interest, political apathy is growing, political polarization is increasing, and distrust persists.
UNDP Resident Representative Bettina Woll was also present at the presentation ceremony.