| Peru is a country of
abundant natural resources and rich culture. Despite this, over
half of the population of Peru live in poverty. Social
discrimination and inequality are widespread. The statistics in the
Peru Fact File emphasise widespread problems in health, education,
poverty and the economy.
HUMAN RIGHTS
Following nearly 15 years of internal war, violations of human
rights continue. But in recent years, there have been a number of
advances in the area of human rights. However, many innocent people
remain in prison and the use of torture is common.
ECONOMIC
RIGHTS
Although in recent years Peru's macroeconomy has begun to grow, the
country struggles to repay its high mountain of debt. Peru's
under-employment and equal income distribution remain amongst the
most pronounced in Latin America.
POLITICS
Following the downfall of the Fujimori regimes, a regime
characterised by authoritarianism, frequent violation of
constitutional norms and the demise of constitutional political
parties, Peru is enjoying a transition to democracy. Alejandro
Toledo took office in July 2001, and regional elections were held
in November 2002, signalling the beginning of a process of
decentralisation.
WOMEN
As well as over half the population living in poverty, chronic
malnutrition is widespread. Inadequate and unequally distributed
health services mean that the most vulnerable sectors of the
society, women and children are worst affected.
EXTRACTIVE
INDUSTRIES
As it has been for centuries, the Peruvian economy in the 21st
century is still based on mining, fishing and agriculture. Mining
plays a big role in Peru's economy, it is estimated that mining
provides more than half of Peru economy's annual export income.
Growth in this sector during the last decade has resulted in a
significant rise in social conflict.
TRADE
It is claimed that globalisation and the international trade system
offer developing countries an opportunity for economic development
and poverty eradication. Yet, there is an increasing gap between
these claims and global reality. Too frequently the trade system
works in the favour of rich, powerful trading nations and large
corporations, at the expense of the environment, democracy and the
poorest people.
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