Peru enacts law restricting NGO activities and human rights
Peru's Congress has passed a new law that significantly restricts the activities of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This reform modifies the international cooperation law, expanding the powers of the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation and raising concerns about the independence of NGOs. Critics argue that the law will hinder NGOs' ability to provide legal support, particularly to Indigenous communities. A provision makes it a serious offense for NGOs to assist in legal cases against the government, which could limit access to justice. Supporters claim the law enhances transparency, while opponents see it as a means to suppress human rights advocacy. The government has not commented on the law, which has drawn sharp criticism from various human rights groups.