Humala’s visit to the ILO had clear political motives; at a time when social conflicts are the most serious issue with which he is wrestling, his government is keen to present the case that it is sticking to its commitment to social inclusion. Humala is also determined to convey the impression to the international community that social conflicts in Peru are being incited by a small number of radical activists and are not the product of widespread popular discontent with his government’s perceived pro-mining agenda. They are taking a domestic political toll though: four members of his ruling coalition Gana Perú have defected since the start of June over his government’s handling of social conflicts over mining.
Humala told the ILO that indigenous communities and campesinos had now become “strategic allies” of the Peruvian State. He reiterated his commitment to listening to them. Humala made a point of approving the ‘Ley de Consulta’ soon after coming to power last July. This recognised Peru’s ratification in 1994 of ILO Convention 169 on indigenous rights, which Humala’s predecessor President Alan García (2006-2011) consistently refused to promulgate after its approval by congress in May 2010. The law compels the State to consult indigenous communities about issues relating to their territories - specifically planned oil and mining projects.
“I am sure that the consultation mechanisms that we have institutionalised will be converted into a fundamental tool for the development of our nation with respect for diversity and guaranteeing equality,” Humala said. “Our political proposal consists of developing dignified and decent jobs to defeat poverty,” he added. “There’s no point having macroeconomic figures in the black if they don’t translate into success stories – children who don’t work but study and play, health centres with medicine for all, faces of satisfaction, concrete opportunities,” he went on.
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