Corruption in Peru: million-dollar losses and a program for young public servants.

Corruption in Peru since 2021 has had a devastating impact on the country's economy, resulting in losses amounting to S/ 72 billion, according to a recent report from the General Comptroller of the Republic. This alarming figure was revealed by the president of the Lima Chamber of Commerce, Roberto De La Tore, who highlighted the magnitude of the problem and its direct consequences on the most vulnerable populations. In the past year, corruption has cost the country approximately S/ 24 billion, an amount that could have financed the construction of 50 hospitals or the creation of 1,600 modern schools. Furthermore, this sum could have generated over a million jobs, thus contributing to the social and economic development of Peru. De La Tore emphasized that the resources diverted by corruption significantly limit investment in infrastructure, health, and education—essential areas for the well-being of citizens. The situation becomes even more concerning when considering the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) prepared by Transparency International. This index shows that Peru has seen a deterioration in its perception of corruption, falling from 101st to 121st place since 2012. Currently, the country is in the lower third of the ranking of the most corrupt countries, alongside nations such as Angola, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan. This situation negatively impacts the attraction of foreign capital, increasing risks for investors and limiting growth opportunities. In light of this alarming reality, the Lima Chamber of Commerce has decided to take proactive measures to address the problem. De La Tore presented the initiative "Seedbed for Future Officials and Public Servants," a project aimed at fostering interest among young people in working within the state apparatus. This proposal aims to improve public service standards and contribute to the long-term fight against corruption. The program has successfully brought together over 450 high-achieving university students, from which a group of 60 members will be selected. This "II Seedbed" represents a crucial opportunity for young people to acquire the necessary tools to become better public servants and, consequently, agents of change in the country's public administration. Hernán Lanzara, president of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission of the CCL, emphasized the importance of this initiative. According to him, young people will not only learn about public service but will also become "guardians of integrity and justice." Their role will be fundamental in building a more equitable and transparent future for Peru. Lanzara also stressed the commitment that participating youth will have. "In this space, we will strengthen values, ethics, and a sense of responsibility. We will forge an unbreakable commitment to transparency," he stated. The idea is for these future officials to understand the direct impact they will have on the lives of millions of people and how their decisions can influence the quality of public services. Through this proposal, the Lima Chamber of Commerce seeks not only to contribute to the fight against corruption but also to instill a new culture of integrity in public administration. In a context where corruption has grown and severely affected the economy, initiatives like this are more necessary than ever. Ultimately, the active participation of young people in public administration could lay the groundwork for significant change in the country. The fight against corruption is a challenge that requires the commitment of all, and it is imperative that new generations are prepared to confront it and transform it into an opportunity for the development and well-being of the population.