A representative of a civil society organization in Peru said: “In Peru, the aid freeze hasn’t just cut budgets, it’s helped fuel the push for laws that silence our sector. It’s not just the funding that’s disappearing, it’s the space to act.”

Date: 5/25

Region: Latin America & Caribbean

Country: Peru

Topic: Governance & Rights

Policy Lens: Democracy & Governance

Entry Type: Field Observation

Additional Context: This quote was shared during a webinar titled “Navigating Uncertainty: The Impact of U.S. Funding Freezes on Global Civil Society” hosted by EU SEE on May 7, 2025. Over 300 participants ranging from grassroots leaders to donor agencies and academics came together to share insights.

This quote is attributed to Carlos Arroyo of Proética. According to EU SEE, rhetorical attacks on civil society actors in Peru have further intensified a hostile climate for civil society in the country following the U.S. funding cuts. The narrative produced during this time undermined these organizations' work and has since restricted their participation in public policy formulation.

Source: EU SEE