"Strengthening civic education, key to democracy in Peru and Latin America."

This week, within the framework of the Leadership Academy for Development program, the current situation of democracies in Latin America has come to the forefront, focusing particularly on the case of Peru. Participation in this event, which brought together leaders and scholars from various disciplines, allowed for reflection not only on the state of democracy in the region but also on the crucial role of civic education in building more just and democratic societies. One of the key points of the meeting was the identification of a period of "democratic recession," a phenomenon that, although alarming, should not lead us to fatalism. Despite the challenges, many believe that Latin American democracies have shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. However, the case of Venezuela, among others, resonates as a clear warning of what can happen if proactive action is not taken to defend democratic values. In Peru, the rise of crime and its connection to illegal economies represent a significant threat to democratic stability. Although chronic levels seen in countries like Mexico, Brazil, or Colombia have not yet been reached, experts warn of the need to address these issues before they become a point of no return. The situation is delicate and requires a serious and coordinated approach from various sectors of society. During the program, the concept of "democratic hollowing" was discussed, which explains how institutions and citizen participation have weakened in Peru. However, scholars also acknowledged that the Peruvian reality is dynamic and complex, making it difficult to formulate a clear diagnosis comparable to that of other countries in the region. Despite the challenges, the creation of networks such as Democracia+ represents a ray of hope in the search for solutions to strengthen the political landscape in the region. The role of the Peruvian State has been fundamental in this deterioration by relegating civic education to a secondary position. This omission has resulted in a lack of critical training among citizens, which translates into a diminished capacity to demand accountability and actively participate in the democratic process. Nevertheless, this responsibility should not fall solely on the State; civil society and the business sector must also take on a proactive role in this task. Initiatives like Recambio, which are being developed in collaboration with the startup Excuela, aim to change this narrative. By bringing teaching about democracy and citizenship to mass audiences in an accessible and playful way, the goal is not only to inform but also to empower citizens to exercise their rights and responsibilities actively and consciously. The commitment of business leaders and civil society is crucial in this process. Companies must not only be workplaces but also civic education spaces, where critical thinking, respect for diverse opinions, and understanding of citizens' rights and duties are promoted. This would not only benefit the work environment but also contribute to forming a more informed and engaged citizenry. Civic education must be a national crusade that involves all sectors of society. The conversation about its importance must be constant and active, and it is the responsibility of each of us to move from words to action. The construction of a solid and functional democracy in Peru depends on our ability to educate and empower future generations. In conclusion, it is essential for Peruvian society to recognize the importance of civic education as a pillar of democracy. As we face growing challenges, we must join efforts so that every Peruvian can become an agent of change, capable of contributing to the defense and strengthening of our democratic values. The task is arduous, but collective commitment can open a path toward a more hopeful future.