Dina Boluarte announces modernization of the Ministry of Public Security in Peru.

In a context where citizen security has become one of the most sensitive and relevant issues for the population, President Dina Boluarte has announced a significant change in the structure of the Ministry of the Interior. During her message for the National Holidays, the president revealed that a comprehensive modernization process will begin, which includes the restructuring of the ministry, which will be renamed the Ministry of Public Security. This decision, according to Boluarte, responds to the various crises the country has faced in recent years, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, mass migration, and organized crime. The government’s proposal has been submitted to Congress with urgency, and after its publication on the Legislative's website, it is expected to be analyzed and discussed in the coming days. The president emphasized that the name change is not merely symbolic but aims to respond more effectively to current security challenges. "It is necessary to reformulate the structures and functions of the ministry so that they can effectively meet the needs of the citizens," Boluarte stated. The bill also includes specific amendments to the Law on the Organization and Functions of the Ministry of the Interior, without implying any additional cost to the Public Treasury. This represents an effort to optimize the functioning of the ministry and ensure that its competencies and functions align with the new designation. The proposed changes aim, among other things, to establish the ministry as the governing body of the National Citizen Security System. Details of the proposal reveal that the new Ministry of Public Security will assume exclusive national competencies in matters of internal order and public order, as well as shared competencies in citizen security. This reflects a more comprehensive approach that seeks not only to address crime but also the new threats affecting national and citizen security. The inclusion of strategic intelligence and counter-intelligence functions is a key component of this reform. Furthermore, the importance of eradicating corruption and promoting meritocracy within the ministry has been emphasized, a goal that has gained relevance amid scandals affecting various state institutions. President Boluarte has stressed that the success of this modernization will depend on the effective implementation of changes, as well as collaboration among different state entities. The initiative also aims to improve the public services that the ministry offers, from regulating private security to managing migration flows and emergency response. These services are fundamental to ensuring peaceful coexistence and protecting the fundamental rights of citizens. In this sense, the project is presented as an effort to transform security into a more accessible and efficient public service. Since the proposal was presented, critical voices have been heard questioning the effectiveness of changing the name of the ministry. Some analysts suggest that this measure alone will not resolve the insecurity problems facing the country and that a broader and deeper approach is needed to address the root causes of crime. However, the government has defended this reform as a necessary step toward building a comprehensive public security policy. The current context, marked by an increase in violence and crime, makes this proposal more relevant than ever. Citizens demand effective responses from the state, and the modernization of the ministry could represent an opportunity to revitalize trust in security institutions. The integration of information technologies and new communication channels is also mentioned as a key element for improving citizen security. Finally, the success of implementing these reforms will depend on the political will and commitment of all involved actors. President Boluarte has expressed her intention for the new Ministry of Public Security to act as an entity that not only responds to emergencies but also fosters an environment of peace and social tranquility. Civil society, in this context, will play a crucial role in monitoring and demanding compliance with these new security standards.