Peru celebrates its cultural independence through the creation of a Ministry of Culture

On July 22, Peruvian President Alan García signed a law establishing the new institution in the presence of political and artistic personalities gathered at the museum of Pachacamac Temple, one of Peru’s most important archaeological sites that at one time was home of one of the most consulted oracles in the Andean world.

President García stated that the creation of the Ministry of Culture was an important step forward for Peru, in that the new ministry will contribute to enhancing national identity and ensure a more comprehensive view of all cultural expressions in the country. The President hailed the outstanding contribution of Parliament in bringing this project to fruition and especially the work led by Elvira de la Puente, representative of the National Coalition for Cultural Diversity of Peru and former Member of Parliament.

"It's a great victory for the people of Peru and our friend and comrade Elvira de la Puente, who for years has advocated tirelessly for the creation of this national Ministry of Culture, in this country of great cultural wealth and diversity, "said Charles Vallerand, General Secretary of the Federation International of Coalitions for Cultural Diversity. “As countries that have ratified the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions are engaging in the implementation phase of this international instrument, which is intended to provide a counterbalance to trade agreements, this is an outstanding example of best practices for the international community.”

The new ministry will bring together existing cultural institutions such as the National Institute of Culture, the National Library of Peru, the General Archive of the Nation, and the Academy of the Quechua language. The incumbent has not yet been announced.