Peru: Student groups to stage protest march in central Lima starting at 17:00 Feb. 5

Event

Several student groups plan to demonstrate in central Lima during the evening of Feb. 5. The purpose of the action is to demand that Congress reject a recent ruling that activists assert would reduce education quality by weakening the oversight role of the National Office of the Superintendent for Higher University Education (SUNEDU). Participants will assemble at Plaza San Martin at 17:00 before marching northwest along Avenida Nicolas de Pierola, turning southward on Avenida Wilson, then moving eastward along Avenida Miguel Grau. Upon reaching Avenida Abancay, demonstrators will turn north and return to their starting point via Avenida Pierola. It remains unclear how many participants the event may draw; however, the march could be well attended. Activist groups pursuing other grievances against the government could also join the protest.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy a heavy police presence to monitor the demonstration. Traffic disruptions are likely in areas in the vicinity of the march route. While the gathering will probably remain largely peaceful, clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the general vicinity of Plaza San Martin and the announced march route until the demonstration has ended and the participants have vacated the area. Heed the instructions of local security personnel. Allow extra time to reach destinations near the march route. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of any security disturbance or confrontation.