In Peru, a powerful wave of youthful energy is shaking up the country’s politics. Young people—especially those under 30—are filling city streets, demanding change and challenging the old systems. They believe they are the only hope for a better future.
This article looks at how Generation Z is rising, what they want, what stands in their way, and why they might reshape Peru’s destiny.
Who Is Leading the Youth Movement?
A Young Voice Speaks Out
Jean Villanueva, 29, is an accountant by training. But in Peru right now, he is much more than that—he’s a protest leader. His father collects bus tickets in Lima, a job threatened by mafia extortion.
Jean sees daily life full of danger and unfairness. Rather than waiting, he leads protests. He says his generation has to step up.
Recently, Jean was hit by tear gas and beaten by police during a protest. He still carries the marks. Yet he continues to stand firm. He believes young Peruvians must be the ones to bring hope and change back to their country.
The Power of Generation Z
In Peru, people aged 15 to 29 make up more than 25% of voters, the largest age group. Because of this, their voice matters more than ever. They demand better leadership, fairness, and a future free of corruption.
Yackov Solano, just 22, is another prominent leader. With a black bandana and a strong message, he helps organize youth across the country. He and Jean both believe that their generation must take action now.
What Are They Protesting For?
Their Key Demands
These are some of the main demands the youth are making:
| Demand | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Resignation of interim leaders | They want the temporary president to step down and for a fair process to begin. |
| Prosecute officials | Those who used violence against protesters should face legal action. |
| Repeal unjust laws | Laws that harm young people’s future—like forced pension contributions—should be removed. |
| True dialogue | Youth want to be part of decision-making, not just witnesses. |
| Stop corruption | They ask powerful figures to stop stealing and criminal acts. |
They already succeeded in ousting a former president (Dina Boluarte), but many demands remain. The youth plan to continue protests until they see real progress.
How They Organise and Symbolize Their Movement
Social Media and Symbols
These young activists connect via social media, spreading their message quickly across regions. One common symbol is a pirate flag with a skull wearing a straw hat. It comes from their shared love of the anime One Piece, which is now tied to their identity and rebellion.
They also use bandanas, skull imagery, and slogans from popular culture. These things give visual strength to their protests and make them instantly recognizable.
Challenges and Harsh Reality
Many people tell the young protesters they are lazy, glued to screens, or disconnected from real life. But these youth say their online world simply led them to the streets.
One spark was a pension reform that threatened their future earnings. That was enough to push many into action. Peru also has a large number of NEETs—young people who are not in education, employment, or training. That number stands at about 1.5 million, according to the OECD.
Many young people feel unsafe. They cannot go to school or work without fear. Because instability has dragged on for over a decade, these young people are more confrontational and determined than before.
Why Peru’s Youth Movement Matters
This movement is not just about one president or one law. It’s about building a new way forward. Generation Z in Peru is showing that young people will no longer be ignored. They want a peaceful, fair life and a say in how their country is run.
The fact that this age group is the largest voting bloc gives them real political leverage. If they stay united, their influence could be huge in elections and policy decisions.
Peru today is witnessing a youth-driven wave that refuses to be silent. With voices like Jean Villanueva and Yackov Solano speaking out, the movement is clear: young Peruvians will not wait.
They demand fairness, an end to corruption, accountability, and true participation in their nation’s future. The strength of this generation and their political weight could change Peru’s path forever. The fight is ongoing, but their spirit is strong—and their message is loud.
