Peru

SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children grow up with the care, protection and relationships they need to become their strongest selves (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).

Peru is located in the western part of South America. It borders Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile and Ecuador. Nearly 34 million people live in Peru. It is the third largest country in South America, and attracts many visitors to its magnificent natural and historical sites. However, children and young people growing up here face many challenges. Peru is one of the world’s largest producers of cocaine. Illegal drug trade, murders, domestic violence and corruption are still worrying issues that affect many families.

SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children and young people without parental care, or at risk of losing it, in Peru since 1975.

Children are at risk

In Peru, children under the age of 15 account for over 26% of the population. Vulnerable children and young people face many challenges which include living in poverty, and being affected by violence, abuse and malnutrition. Many of these children are forced to drop out of school at an early age. Children, young people and adults need support so that they can get a good education and training, and thus improve their chances in life.
30%
Of the population in Peru lives in poverty

Widespread poverty

Around 30% of the population of Peru lives in poverty. Poverty is most prevalent among indigenous communities living in remote rural areas. One of the main ways in which poverty affects children is malnutrition. Over 13% of children under 5 are chronically malnourished. Even though Peru is growing economically, anemia and chronic child malnutrition remain major issues. Young children are particularly vulnerable, and their development is affected.

30%
Increase in child labour in coca- producing areas

Child labour

Peru is one of the world’s largest producers of cocaine. Coca leaves are required to produce cocaine. Demand for cocaine pushes a generation of children into forced child labour for coca farming and a life of crime. Growing up in this environment increases their chances of staying in the cocaine industry in later life. When grown up, they are 30% more likely to be imprisoned for violent and drug related crimes.

30%
Of children in Peru experience violence

Violence

Around 30% of children in Peru experience violence and abuse. Over the last 20 years, Peru has made significant efforts in the prevention, punishment and eradication of violence. Unfortunately, the level of violence against children remains very high. Sadly, the most frequent form of violence experienced by Peruvian children is at home, by parents or caregivers.

Together we can make a difference for children in Peru

330
Families
Can stay together
6,140
Children, young people and adults
Can attend our kindergartens, schools and trainings
480
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
280
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Ana* is finishing her studies and dreams of having her own interior design business. In Peru, like in other countries, we support children and young people in their education. As they grow older, we draw up a plan with each young person and support them until they can become independent (*name changed, photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).

Working together for sustainable development

In 2015, leaders from 193 countries committed to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This 15 year plan aims to improve the lives of people by ending poverty, fighting inequality and protecting the planet.
GOAL 1: End poverty
SOS Children’s Villages supports families and communities to keep families together and to help them break out of the cycle of poverty.
GOAL 4: Ensure quality education for all
Every child and young person SOS Children’s Villages supports has access to education, from kindergarten right up to vocational training or university.
GOAL 8: Equal job opportunities for all
SOS Children’s Villages supports young people in developing the skills and self-confidence they need to find decent work and trains parents so that they can have a stable income.
GOAL 10: Reduce inequalities
SOS Children’s Villages works to keep children safe by promoting peaceful and inclusive communities. We provide training on children’s rights and positive parenting. .
GOAL 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies
We advocate laws and practices that ensure social inclusion and protection for children and young people without parental care or from marginalized households.

Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!

Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives