Peru’s Congress is set to hold a second vote on bills 4431/2022 and 6718/2023, with dates yet to be confirmed. These bills seek to increase criminal penalties for defamation and slander in cases linked to ongoing investigations of crimes by officials and public servants. In a joint statement, the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Inter American Press Association (IAPA), the National Society of Radio and Television of Peru, the Peruvian Press Council, and the National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) voiced serious concern that the bills if passed could severely restrict journalistic work and silence critical reporting. According to the Global Investigative Journalism Network, the proposed laws would prevent journalists from reporting on matters of public interest involving state officials. Such restrictions would represent a significant setback for freedom of expression and the public’s right to access information.
The concerns extend beyond legislation. The Executive Branch recently attempted to impose mandatory informational segments across media platforms—a measure widely criticized as an effort to exert editorial control. In response to public backlash, the government suspended the proposal just days after its announcement.
In addition, attacks against journalists in Peru continue to rise, often met with official silence. In at least two reported cases, journalists faced physical assaults, digital harassment, and intimidation, with victims directly accusing public officials of being responsible.