Peruvian Elections in 2000: Congressional Concerns and Policy Approaches (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Jan. 16, 2001 |
| Report Number |
RS20536 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Maureen Taft-Morales, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
In a vote that observers said did not meet minimum conditions for a free and fair election,
President
Alberto Fujimori of Peru won a third term on May 28. The United States urged sanctions, but the
OAS sent a high-level mission to press Peru for democratic reforms instead. Corruption scandals and
lessened support led Fujimori to agree to new elections in April 2001 and then, on November 20,
to resign.
The 106th Congress called for the review and modification of U.S. relations with Peru if
elections were not judged free and fair by international observers, and then for the withholding of
aid if democratic progress was not made. Other concerns, particularly the curbing of illegal drug
trafficking and protecting security interests, affect how the United States responds to the situation
in Peru. Options for Congress range from a cautious approach aimed at protecting security interests
to applying greater pressure on the government of Peru to respect and develop democratic processes.
