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May 23, 2026 – Peru –
Journalists in Peru are confronting increasing threats, intimidation, and hostility as the country experiences democratic backsliding and growing political instability, according to a new report published by the Committee to Protect Journalists. The organization said reporters covering corruption, protests, and organized crime are facing escalating dangers while government officials and political actors continue undermining press freedom.
The report described a climate of fear among journalists working in Peru, particularly outside the capital, Lima. Reporters interviewed by CPJ said they regularly received threats, harassment, and online abuse connected to their investigations. Several journalists stated they feared physical attacks or assassination because they reported on corruption networks, local authorities, and criminal organizations.
According to CPJ, attacks against journalists intensified after the political crisis that followed the removal and arrest of former President Pedro Castillo in late 2022. Peru has since experienced repeated anti-government protests, political turmoil, and confrontations between demonstrators and security forces. Journalists covering these events reportedly faced assaults, arbitrary detention, and intimidation from both protesters and police.
The organization also raised concerns about legal pressure targeting independent media outlets. Journalists told CPJ that authorities increasingly used defamation laws, lawsuits, and public accusations to discourage investigative reporting. Media workers said the hostile political environment encouraged attacks against reporters and weakened public trust in independent journalism.
CPJ noted that local journalists in rural regions often faced the greatest danger because of weak institutional protections and the influence of organized criminal groups involved in illegal mining, drug trafficking, and corruption. Several reporters said they received little protection from police despite repeated threats against them and their families.
The report connected Peru’s deteriorating press freedom climate to wider regional concerns about democratic decline and hostility toward independent media in Latin America. Recent international reports and online discussions have reflected growing alarm over violence against journalists, political polarization, and increasing pressure on investigative reporting throughout the region.
CPJ urged Peruvian authorities to investigate threats against journalists, strengthen protections for media workers, and ensure that reporters can safely cover political developments and corruption without fear of violence or retaliation.
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