Peru — humanitarian situation

Peru faces intersecting challenges from regional migration dynamics, public health threats, and climate-related risks as mid-2026 approaches. The country continues to host a significant Venezuelan refugee and migrant population, though recent movement patterns show contraction in northbound flows and increased return dynamics across the region during the second half of 2025, driven by more restrictive policy environments and limited access to regular stay options (R4V). A regional funding crisis has severely constrained humanitarian response capacity, with the Regional Refugee and Migrant Response Plan receiving only approximately 10% of required funding in 2025, forcing many partners to reduce or suspend activities (R4V). Protection monitoring in Lima during May 2025 documented ongoing challenges for refugees and asylum seekers in accessing rights and services (UNHCR), while regional efforts focus on strengthening socioeconomic inclusion and self-reliance for over 70,000 displaced persons across the Americas through improved access to employment, services, and legal identity (UNHCR). The public health environment has deteriorated significantly across the Americas, with direct implications for Peru. Regional measles cases have surged to 22,324 confirmed cases and 38 deaths across 17 countries and territories as of 13 June 2026, representing a 207% increase compared to the same period in 2025 (PAHO, OCHA). Diphtheria cases have also risen sharply, with 163 confirmed cases including five deaths reported in the first 21 weeks of 2026, more than double the 2025 figure (PAHO). Both outbreaks reflect sustained gaps in vaccination coverage that have persisted below optimal levels for several years across the region, prompting calls to strengthen routine immunization programs and epidemiological surveillance (PAHO). Climate forecasting presents additional concern as El Niño conditions are very likely from mid-2026, with most forecasts indicating at least a moderate-strength event and increasing possibility of a strong event (IASC, IFRC, OCHA). Analysis of previous El Niño episodes in 2015/16 and 2023/24 documents significant food security impacts across affected regions (WFP). This anticipated event arrives amid record global temperatures, compounding potential humanitarian consequences. The current forecasting window provides an opportunity for advance action before crisis peaks, though that window is closing (IASC, IFRC, OCHA).