Labor proposals of presidential candidates in Peru

In the context of the 2026 presidential elections, candidates in Peru have outlined various proposals to address the labor challenges facing the country. With an unemployment rate that has fluctuated in recent years, job creation and the improvement of working conditions have become central themes of the campaign.

One of the leading candidates, Juan Pérez, has proposed the creation of a national youth employment program aimed at providing training and job opportunities to young people, who make up a significant percentage of the unemployed population. His plan also includes tax incentives for companies that hire youth in vulnerable situations.

On the other hand, candidate María López has emphasized the need to strengthen labor rights. Her proposal includes the implementation of a living minimum wage and the promotion of unionization, arguing that these steps are essential to ensure fair and equitable working conditions. She has also highlighted the importance of regulating remote work, a mode that has grown due to the pandemic, to ensure that workers are not exploited.

Candidate Andrés García has focused on labor informality, which affects a large part of the Peruvian population. His proposal includes the formalization of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by simplifying procedures and creating a support fund for entrepreneurs. According to García, this would not only generate more formal employment but also contribute to the country’s tax collection.

The labor situation in Peru is not unique, as many Latin American countries face similar challenges, including high informality and youth unemployment. The region, which has been hit hard by the pandemic, is now seeking to recover and adapt to a new labor market that prioritizes flexibility and inclusion.

As the elections approach, it is crucial for voters to evaluate which proposals can genuinely contribute to improving the labor situation in the country. The decisions made in this campaign could define the future of employment in Peru and its ability to face the economic challenges ahead.