Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez Debate Poverty and Employment
In a recent debate, Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez tackled critical issues for Peru's future, focusing on the economy, employment, and poverty reduction. This event took place against a backdrop where unemployment rates in the country remain concerning, with a reported 6.4% in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting the fragility of the Peruvian labor market.
Fujimori, former presidential candidate and leader of the Fuerza Popular party, emphasized the importance of implementing policies that promote foreign investment and job creation. She argued that the development of large infrastructure projects could be key to stimulating the economy and reducing poverty. In her speech, she stressed the need to create a favorable environment for businesses, which, according to her, would lead to greater job generation.
On the other hand, Roberto Sánchez, the current Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, defended the current government's stance, indicating that specific programs have been implemented for job formalization and workforce training. He also mentioned that significant efforts have been made to attract investments that generate employment in key sectors, such as tourism and technology.
The debate not only focused on economic policies but also addressed the poverty crisis affecting millions of Peruvians. Both parties agreed on the urgency to act, although their approaches differed. Fujimori proposed tax cuts for small and medium enterprises, arguing that this could free up resources to create more jobs. Sánchez, however, advocated for maintaining social spending and strengthening existing programs that directly assist the most vulnerable communities.
The significance of this debate lies in the current context of Latin America, where many countries face similar challenges in post-pandemic economic recovery. In Peru, where 25% of the population lives in poverty, the dialogue on employment and the economy is more crucial than ever. Decisions made in the coming months could determine the country's path toward sustainable and equitable growth.