From 2007 Rulings to Health Reforms: the Evolution of Peru’s Consent Legislation

Explore how From 2007 Rulings to Health Reforms: the Evolution of Peru’s Consent Legislation remains a key topic with our thorough coverage.

Q1: What is the official legal age of consent in Peru today?

A1: The legal age of consent is 14 years old under Article 173 of the Peru Penal Code. Sexual acts involving an individual under 14 are strictly prohibited and classified as statutory rape, regardless of whether consent was ostensibly given.

Q2: Can an adult date a 15- or 16-year-old legally in Peru?

A2: While the baseline age of consent is 14, an adult can face severe criminal penalties if they occupy a position of authority, trust, or guardianship over the minor (such as a teacher, coach, boss, or family member), or if coercion, fraud, or economic exploitation is involved.

Q3: Does Peru have close-in-age or "Romeo and Juliet" exemptions?

A3: Peru does not have an explicit American-style statutory exemption that decriminalizes acts with someone under 14 based on a narrow age gap. The 14-year line is absolute under criminal law. However, relationships between two minors who are both aged 14 to 17 are entirely decriminalized.

Q4: Can teenagers under 18 access birth control and STI testing without parental approval?

A4: Yes. Following reforms backed by UNAIDS and subsequent updates to Ministry of Health technical guidelines, adolescents aged 14 and older can access confidential sexual and reproductive health consultations, HIV testing, and preventative care without mandatory parental notification or criminal reporting.