CIVICUS, the global alliance for citizen participation, recently discussed Peru’s new amnesty law with Nadia Ramos Serrano, founder and researcher at the Leadership Centre for Women of the Americas. The Centre is a civil society organization that works towards democratic development and the empowerment of women in politics.
In August, the Peruvian government passed a controversial amnesty law that grants immunity to military personnel and police officers accused of human rights violations during the country’s internal armed conflict between 1980 and 2000. This decision has sparked widespread criticism and protests from human rights groups and victims’ families.
Nadia Ramos Serrano, who has been working closely with women affected by the conflict, shared her insights on the issue in an exclusive interview with CIVICUS.
She starts by explaining the background of the conflict, which lasted for two decades and resulted in the loss of over 69,000 lives. The conflict was marked by violence and human rights abuses committed by both state security forces and armed rebel groups. Women and children were disproportionately affected, with many becoming victims of sexual violence and forced displacement.
Nadia believes that the new amnesty law is a step backward for the country’s efforts towards transitional justice and reconciliation. She says, “Peru has made significant progress in recent years in holding perpetrators accountable for their actions during the conflict. This amnesty law undermines these efforts and sends a message that human rights violations will be overlooked and forgotten.”
The law has been heavily criticized for its lack of consultation with victims and their families. Nadia points out that the voices of those most affected by the conflict have been completely ignored in the decision-making process. “The government has failed to acknowledge the pain and suffering of victims and their families. This law is a clear violation of their rights to truth, justice, and reparation,” she says.
The amnesty law also raises concerns about the country’s commitment to gender equality and women’s rights. Nadia highlights that the majority of victims of sexual violence during the conflict were women and girls. By granting amnesty to perpetrators, the law perpetuates a culture of impunity and denies justice to these women. It also undermines the progress made in recognizing the rights of women and addressing gender-based violence in Peru.
Nadia further explains that the law not only affects the victims and their families but also has a wider impact on the country’s democratic development. “This decision shows a lack of political will to address the legacies of the conflict and promote a culture of respect for human rights. It also raises questions about the government’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights,” she states.
Despite the challenges, Nadia remains hopeful and determined to continue her work with the Leadership Centre for Women of the Americas. She believes that civil society has a crucial role to play in advocating for justice and promoting the rights of victims. “We will not be silenced. We will continue to raise our voices and demand accountability for the atrocities committed during the conflict,” she says.
Nadia also calls on the international community to take a stand and support the victims of Peru’s internal armed conflict. “The international community has a responsibility to ensure that human rights are respected and protected in all countries. We urge them to speak out against the amnesty law and stand in solidarity with the victims and their families,” she emphasizes.
In conclusion, Nadia’s words serve as a reminder that the fight for justice and human rights is an ongoing struggle. The passing of the amnesty law in Peru is a setback, but it also highlights the importance of civil society’s role in holding governments accountable and advocating for the rights of all citizens. Let us join hands and stand in solidarity with the victims and their families in their quest for truth and justice.
