Insecurity in Lima: The risk faced by entrepreneurs and small businesses.

The situation of citizen insecurity in Lima has reached alarming levels, turning business activity into a high-risk endeavor. According to Andrés Choy, president of the Association of Shopkeepers of Peru, crime has been on a constant rise, a fact that has become more than evident in the last three years. This increase not only affects the safety of citizens but also jeopardizes the viability of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, which are forced to deal with a hostile environment where criminal violence has become an unusual workplace companion.

Extortion and protection rackets have shifted from being isolated phenomena to common practices that affect entrepreneurs in various sectors. Small traders, in particular, find themselves in a vulnerable position, as they often lack the necessary resources to protect their businesses. This situation creates a climate of fear that not only discourages investment but also hinders the country’s economic recovery, an objective that seems increasingly distant in light of the rising wave of crime.

The impact of these criminal practices is devastating. Often, small businesses that cannot cope with extortion see closing their doors as their last option. This not only means job losses but also the disintegration of small communities that rely on these businesses for their livelihood. The sense of insecurity translates into decreased consumption, further exacerbating the economic situation in Lima and its surroundings.

As insecurity becomes a constant in the lives of entrepreneurs, the question that arises is how this trend can be reversed. The answer is not straightforward. Authorities must act swiftly and decisively to address the root causes of the problem, implementing effective policies that not only pursue criminals but also strengthen citizens' trust in justice and institutions.

It is essential for the government and law enforcement to become more actively involved in protecting businesses by offering strategies that include increased surveillance in the most conflict-ridden areas and establishing secure and effective reporting channels. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial to creating a safe environment where entrepreneurs can operate without fear of retaliation.

The situation is not just a security issue; it is an economic development matter. The lack of adequate conditions for commerce can discourage the establishment of new businesses and limit opportunities for those trying to achieve the dream of entrepreneurship. Investment in security should not be viewed as an expense but rather as an investment in the country’s future.

The business community also has a role to play. Organization and solidarity among traders can be powerful tools to confront this adversity. By creating support networks and collaboration mechanisms, businesses can not only protect themselves better but also pressure authorities to take more decisive action.

Despite the darkness surrounding this phenomenon, it is important to remember that resilience is a characteristic of the Peruvian people. History has shown that in the face of adversity, citizens find ways to adapt and overcome obstacles. However, this should not be an excuse to accept violence as a normal part of everyday life.

Lima, a city with undeniable potential, cannot afford to be defined by crime. It is time for the various social actors, from the government to citizens, to work together to build a future where security and prosperity are a reality for all. Citizen security is a collective task that requires the commitment and action of everyone. Only then can trust and dynamism be restored, allowing Lima to shine once again as an important commercial and cultural center in the region.