The Armed Forces of Peru: A Pillar in Country Risk Management and National Security

The management of country risk is a topic that has gained special relevance in the last decade, and the Armed Forces (FFAA) of Peru play a fundamental role in this area, beyond their traditional function of national defense. In a context where internal and external threats intertwine, it is crucial to recognize how the FFAA not only defend territorial integrity but also act as a bastion against social, political, and environmental crises. The experience gained during the Coastal El Niño crisis in 2017 is a clear example of the positive impact that the FFAA can have in disaster management. At that critical moment, the mobilization and logistical capacity of the armed forces were decisive in mitigating the devastating effects of this climatic phenomenon. Unfortunately, the anti-military bias that persists in certain sectors of society prevents the recognition of these achievements and the potential of the FFAA to effectively contribute to the security and well-being of the country. However, the role of the FFAA goes beyond responding to natural disasters. In a country with a history marked by internal conflicts, the presence of terrorist movements such as the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA) highlights the need for a military force prepared to counter threats to national sovereignty. The FFAA have been instrumental in weakening these organizations, contributing to the restoration of order and peace on various occasions. In the political sphere, the defense of democracy has emerged as another essential aspect of the FFAA's role. The recent attempted coup by former president Pedro Castillo illustrates how certain actors can threaten democratic stability from within. The response of the FFAA, which refused to support illegitimate actions, demonstrates their commitment to democracy, although recent history also reminds us that in past occasions, military institutions have been involved in dark episodes that have discredited them in the eyes of society. Organized crime, another critical aspect in the management of country risk, also poses a significant challenge. Gangs operating in drug trafficking, illegal mining, and other informal economies have begun to establish themselves in various regions of the country, creating an atmosphere of insecurity and distrust. The penetration of organized crime into state institutions is a growing concern that demands a strong and coordinated response from the FFAA and other government entities. Moreover, recent history reveals an alarming increase in the correlation between organized crime and politics, leading to Peru being classified as a "hybrid regime." This phenomenon not only jeopardizes governance but also threatens to transform the country into a failed state if adequate measures are not taken to counteract these impacts. In this context, strengthening the FFAA is vital. A well-equipped and prepared military institution not only protects the integrity of the country but also contributes to social cohesion, bringing the state to areas where governmental presence is limited. Examples of initiatives such as the PIAS (Itinerant Platforms for Social Action) and the SIMA (Industrial Service of the Peruvian Navy) are proof of how the FFAA can serve as agents of development in vulnerable areas. Threats to national security require modernization of military doctrines and techniques. Hybrid wars, which include everything from cyberattacks to the manipulation of ethnic conflicts, demand a renewed approach to defense strategy, as well as closer collaboration between the armed forces and other state institutions. Despite the challenges, it is necessary to overcome anti-military currents that hinder the development of an effective armed force. These ideas come from both leftist sectors that distrust militarization and from those who, under the premise of peace, consider the FFAA to be obsolete. Reality shows that, in an increasingly complex world, military preparedness remains a necessity. Finally, it is essential to remember that the relationship between society and the FFAA must be based on mutual respect and collaboration. A country that does not value its armed forces faces an uncertain future, marked by instability and conflict. Likewise, the FFAA, if they associate with corrupt interests, can become a destabilizing factor. It is a delicate balance that requires attention and joint effort to ensure a safe and prosperous future for Peru.