UNITED NATIONS GIRLS EDUCATION INITIATIVE

During 2002, Peru had the fastest growing economy in the region with an estimated Gross Domestic Product growth rate of 4.5 per cent according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). However, unemployment is still very high and poverty reduction strategies have not had sustainable results.

Children continue to be the most vulnerable and unprotected citizens. Of the 3.8 million people living in extreme poverty, 2.1 million are children. Of the total 10.2 million under-18 population, more than 6.5 million live below the poverty line. The social sector ministries suffered a setback in their capacity for action due to reorganizations of the administrative structure and reduction of public spending budget. Socio-economic disparities and exclusion continue to characterize the country affecting more children and adolescents who are not benefiting from the economic growth mentioned earlier.