Fenate Peru: between controversy and the struggle for recognition

The Fenate Peru union, founded by current president Pedro Castillo, has been in the spotlight since its creation. With a history marked by struggle and controversy, this teachers' group has managed to capture the attention of both its supporters and critics. Their recent meeting with the Ministry of Education has once again put them at the center of the stage, generating debate and conflicting opinions in the public eye. Fenate, emerged as an alternative to Sutep, has faced various obstacles along its path. After achieving official registration as a union during the early days of Pedro Castillo's government, the group seemed to be heading towards a greater influence in the educational sphere. However, the annulment of their registration last year by the Ministry of Labor and Employment Promotion was a harsh setback for the organization. Despite not currently having official recognition, Fenate has continued to operate and seek to regain its status as a legitimate union. Their recent meeting with representatives of the Ministry of Education is a step in that direction, although the discrepancies between both parties remain evident. While Fenate presents a list of demands that includes the annulment of what they consider the "municipalization" of education and a salary increase for teachers, the Ministry of Education emphasizes that they only negotiate with officially recognized unions. Moisés Chipana, current secretary general of Fenate, has been outspoken in denouncing what he considers political persecution by the government against them. The annulment of the union's registration has been interpreted as an attempt to make the organization disappear, according to his statements. However, the Ministry of Education has stated that they do not negotiate with groups linked to terrorist ideologies, drawing a clear line in their stance towards Fenate. Internal division within the union has also come to light, with factions at odds regarding its leadership and strategies. While some members staged a protest in front of the Palace of Justice, led by other leaders, Chipana and his group were meeting with Ministry of Education officials. This fragmentation within Fenate's base reflects the tensions and differences that exist within it, further complicating its current situation. The meeting between Fenate and the Ministry of Education has elicited mixed reactions in the political and educational spheres. While some see this encounter as a step towards resolving conflicts, others criticize it as a dangerous precedent that could open the door to negotiations with unofficially recognized groups. Former minister Marilú Martens has been clear in pointing out that the Ministry of Education can only reach agreements with legally recognized unions, emphasizing the importance of meeting the formal requirements for such negotiations. Amidst this controversy, Fenate continues its struggle to regain its registration and uphold its demands. With an uncertain outlook marked by internal and external divisions, the future of this union founded by Pedro Castillo remains a subject of speculation and debate. Meanwhile, teachers affiliated with Fenate stand firm in their position, ready to carry out their protests and mobilizations in pursuit of an education they consider more just and equitable.