Peru Congress Passes Bill Introducing Statutes of Limitations on War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity [1]
The Peruvian Congress has passed Bill 6951 [3] which introduces a statute of limitations for crimes against humanity that were committed prior to July 1, 2002. The decision sparked major controversy - human rights organizations and UN experts have expressed concerns about the Bill’s potential to foster impunity and impede access to justice for victims of serious abuses.
The bill, promoted by the Popular Force party, could benefit figures like former president Alberto Fujimori, who was convicted of human rights abuses.
UN experts have warned [4] that the bill contravenes international standards. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) has ordered [5] Peru to stop the legislative process, but the Peruvian Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén has criticized the IACHR’s intervention as unusual.
The bill now awaits the signature of President Dina Boluarte, who has the power to object to the bill if she deems it unconstitutional or contrary to international treaties. The fate of the bill and its potential impact on human rights in Peru remains uncertain.