Peru's Interim President Declares State of Emergency Amid Rising Crime and Protests

Peru's interim President José Jerí has declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and the neighboring province of Callao, effective from midnight on October 23, 2025. This decision comes in response to escalating crime rates and recent violent protests that have resulted in one civilian death and over 100 injuries.

The state of emergency permits the deployment of armed forces alongside the police to maintain public order and suspends certain constitutional rights, including freedom of assembly. In a televised address, President Jerí emphasized a proactive approach to combating crime, stating, "Wars are won with actions, not words."

This measure follows the impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte on October 10, 2025, by a unanimous congressional vote of 122–0. Boluarte was removed from office for "permanent moral incapacity" due to her administration's failure to address rising crime rates. José Jerí, who was serving as President of Congress at the time, assumed the presidency in accordance with the constitutional line of succession.

The recent protests, notably led by Generation Z activists, reflect widespread public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of security issues. These demonstrations have been marked by clashes with law enforcement, resulting in significant casualties.

José Enrique Jerí Oré, born on November 13, 1986, in Lima, is a Peruvian lawyer and politician affiliated with the We Are Peru party since 2013. He served as a member of Congress representing Lima from 2021 until his assumption of the presidency in October 2025. At 38, he is the third youngest and the first millennial to serve as President of Peru.

The declaration of a state of emergency underscores the severity of the crime wave affecting Lima and Callao, reflecting the government's urgent response to restore public order. However, the suspension of constitutional rights, such as freedom of assembly, raises concerns about potential overreach and the balance between security and civil liberties.

The prominent role of Generation Z activists in the protests indicates a growing political engagement among younger demographics, potentially influencing future political dynamics in Peru.

Peru has experienced multiple presidential transitions in recent years, with José Jerí becoming the eighth president in less than a decade. This pattern reflects ongoing political instability and challenges in governance.

The declaration of a state of emergency in Lima and Callao by President José Jerí marks a critical juncture in Peru's ongoing struggle with crime and political instability. The government's actions, public response, and the role of youth activism are pivotal elements shaping the nation's path forward.