Peru’s President Addresses Transnational Crime at UN General Assembly

In her first speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Peru’s conservative President Keiko Fujimori characterized transnational crime as a form of terrorism. She cautioned that international criminal networks grow stronger when countries confront these issues alone.

During her address, Fujimori identified the battle against international crime as one of Peru’s top challenges. She expressed that the rights of law-abiding citizens are compromised by the impunity enjoyed by criminals.

Fujimori, the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, took office in late July, marking her as Peru’s tenth president in just a decade of political turmoil. With only 57 days in her role, she acknowledged the pressing issues her administration faces.

She recalled that Peru overcame terrorism over three decades ago, referencing the Marxist group Shining Path, which was defeated during her father’s presidency in the 1990s. Yet, she noted that the nation now contends with a different kind of threat — that of organized crime terrorizing its populace.

“This is a war without clear borders or rules,” Fujimori remarked. “The enemy is not easily identifiable and doesn’t wear uniforms.” She emphasized that in such a context, traditional methods of surrender or peace agreements are not viable.

Fujimori underscored that countries attempting to fight international crime alone make a significant error. She argued that criminal organizations leverage their considerable economic power, further entrenching issues like drug and human trafficking, illegal mining, and extortion.

In her view, the initial step must involve identifying and isolating these enemies. “They are terrorist groups and should be recognized as such,” she stated, highlighting their threat to democracy and civic order.

The president also noted that Peru recently joined the United States-led Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (A3C), which she described as a commitment to collaborate with regional partners against crime. This membership was formalized earlier this month during a visit from Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

“In Peru, our fight against crime will be relentless, addressing not just individuals, but the entire network behind them,” Fujimori said, vowing to stand firm against those who threaten the rule of law.

However, she cautioned that legal efforts alone won’t suffice. Fujimori emphasized the importance of improving the educational system, which she identified as the second major challenge her administration faces. She believes education can drive social transformation and help prevent crime.

Moreover, her speech highlighted the need to enhance democratic institutions in Peru, which she believes represents the third critical issue. She reaffirmed the value of individual freedoms and family as foundational to society.

Wrapping up her address, Fujimori expressed confidence in Peru’s ability to uphold shared principles while remaining true to its identity. “We don’t need uniformity in thought to foster mutual respect,” she remarked. “The world requires authentic democracies, not replicas.”

“What we need is genuine freedom for all peoples,” she concluded.