Peruvian Civil Society Relaunches Campaign to Repeal "Pro-Crime" Laws

• Civil society organizations in Peru have relaunched a nationwide signature drive to repeal so-called "Pro-Crime" laws.
• Citizens are conditioning future dialogue with the government on the repeal of these laws, justice for victims, and the release of former President Castillo.
• Activists stress that relying solely on political promises is insufficient, urging public mobilization to ensure legislative action.

Context of the Initiative

• The "Pro-Crime" laws have caused widespread harm, leading to deep public frustration and demands for legislative reform.
• Previous attempts to advance repeal bills, such as Bill 12158, were stalled or shelved by Congress.
• The Citizens' Coalition for Life (CCV) and the Lima Bar Association (CAL) are coordinating efforts to hold lawmakers accountable to their campaign pledges.

Strategy and Legislative Outlook

• Signature Campaign: Organizers aim to collect 150,000 signatures within three months to submit a formal citizens' legislative initiative by late October.
• Parliamentary Bloc: Supporters are coordinating with four opposition blocs (Juntos por el Perú, Ahora Nación, Obras, and Partido del Buen Gobierno) which, combined, hold a potential majority in both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
• Political Advocacy: The coalition plans to pressure parties that pledged to repeal the laws during the election cycle to follow through on their commitments.

Challenges and Next Steps

• Organizers warn that opposing forces, such as Fujimorism, may attempt to delay or bury the discussion in congressional committees.
• Activists are expanding their working groups to regions including Ayacucho, Cusco, and Arequipa to solidify national consensus.
• Participants are encouraged to download official ONPE forms, collect signatures in blue ink with fingerprints, and coordinate with the national campaign organizers.