Peru is a very heterogeneous country, with a varied geographical make-up and significant socio-economic inequalities. It is a "middle-income" country, with economic growth of around 6.6% over the past decade.
However, the neoliberal economic policies in application in Peru have considerably reduced the presence of the State and the social sector, encouraging private investment by reducing regulations and rights. This has led millions of people to try to survive through various forms of insecure work and self-employment. The country’s high levels of inequality cause serious problems of social exclusion, discrimination and poverty. People with disabilities, and in particular women with disabilities, suffer even more, as their level of access to education and employment remains much lower than the national average.
Due to its geographical location, Peru is the Latin American country most affected by natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, landslides, etc.). Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country is prone to strong seismic activity causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. It sees floods during the rainy season and also suffers from periods of drought. According to the Peruvian government, 60% of the population is exposed to the risk of natural disasters. No measures have been taken to include people with disabilities in prevention and risk reduction initiatives.
In recent years, Peru has been hosting a growing number of Venezuelan refugees, and the humanitarian needs of this population have also grown.
Number of HI staff: 11
Programmed opened in: 2018
