Additional Context: Mayor Aliaga stated, “I am seeking the truth about how the Peruvian people have been robbed of funds intended for social assistance. For example, Manuela Ramos stole more than $1 million from the $1.4 million it received.” His claims were unfounded. After the organization responded publicly, Aliaga filed a letter demanding the organization retract their statements, which he claimed amounted to defamation.

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

Source: EU SEE