Peru to Review Controversial Law on Gender Violence Media Coverage

Peruvian Government to Review Law Mandating 10% Media Airtime for Gender Violence Awareness Lima, Peru – The Peruvian government has announced it will review a new law requiring media outlets to dedicate 10% of their programming to addressing gender-based violence. The decision follows concerns raised by media organizations and legal experts about potential infringements on freedom of speech. Prime Minister Eduardo Arana stated, "We will examine the law carefully. From the executive branch, we assure you we will not use any media outlet for purposes outside the law's objectives." This statement aims to alleviate concerns that the government intends to use the law for political control. However, legal analyst Roberto Pereyra, advisor to IPYS, argues the law is unconstitutional. He stated, "The problem of imposing content and expropriating 10% of media programming is an absolutely ineffective and symbolic measure. Its effect is to control and restrain media outlets." The law, which modifies Article 46 of Law 30364, applies to written, radio, and television media. While intended to combat gender-based violence, the debate highlights the delicate balance between public safety and media freedom in Peru.