The crisis of democracy in Peru and the role of constitutional justice

Abstract

In the last two centuries in Peru, thirteen constitutions have been enacted, but the loyalty of the rulers has been inconsistent. These political charters were adjusted to the needs, including structural and conjunctural changes due to wars and revolutions. In the 21st century, the trend continues with a political crisis triggered by the third call of Congress for the impeachment of President Pedro Castillo in December 2022. There was a failed self-coup attempt, resulting in Castillo’s ouster and the appointment of Vice President Dina Boluarte as his replacement. Nationwide protests and marches demand general elections and a constituent assembly. The crisis has revealed the constitutional conscience of the citizenry, but has also led to the repression and death of people, mainly indigenous. In this context, the constitutional causes of the crisis, the role of the Constitutional Court and the prospects for a constitutional solution.