Peru’s 2026 Elections: Social Media’s Impact on a Generation of New Voters
Peru’s upcoming 2026 general elections will mark a significant shift in the country’s political landscape, with Generation Z, those born between the late 1990s and the early 2000s, stepping into the voting booth for the first time. This generation’s distinct reliance on digital platforms as primary information sources is poised to reshape the electoral process and challenge traditional campaign strategies. Nearly 2.5 million young people will be eligible to vote, representing a potent force in determining the country’s future leadership. The pervasiveness of social media in their lives raises crucial questions about its influence on their political choices and the efficacy of online campaigns. This report examines the dynamic interplay between social media, political engagement, and the potential impact of Generation Z on Peru’s upcoming elections.
The increasing dominance of digital platforms in the lives of Peruvians is undeniable. With over 80% of the population having internet access, social media has become an integral part of how citizens consume information, form opinions, and ultimately, make decisions about who to support politically. However, experts caution against an oversimplified view of social media’s power. While digital platforms offer unprecedented reach and engagement, they are not a guaranteed pathway to electoral victory. Erick Iriarte, a specialist in Digital Law, emphasizes that online popularity does not automatically translate into votes. "A follower is not a voter, nor is a ‘like’ a vote," he points out. The challenge lies in converting online engagement into tangible political support.
While social media alone is unlikely to win an election, it has undeniably become a crucial component of modern campaigning. No successful candidate can afford to ignore the power of digital platforms to reach voters, particularly the younger demographic. Jose Naupari, a lawyer specialized in electoral matters, highlights the particular significance of social media in congressional races, where close margins can be decided by a handful of votes. In such scenarios, the ability to leverage social media to mobilize supporters and influence their preferential votes can be decisive. This poses a significant challenge for the numerous political parties vying for power, particularly the 42 newly registered parties competing against established political entities with more recognizable brands.
Traditional parties, while benefiting from established recognition, face the challenge of connecting with younger voters. These voters are less likely to be swayed by established party identities and more likely to engage with candidates and their platforms through social media. The format of congressional ballots, which primarily feature party symbols rather than individual candidate faces, presents an additional layer of complexity. Naupari suggests that social media could bridge this gap by allowing parties to showcase their candidates and platforms directly to young voters, making them more relatable and accessible. The interplay between social media and traditional party structures is becoming increasingly relevant in shaping the political landscape.
Debate surrounds the proposal to lower the voting age in Peru. Currently, bills are under consideration to allow citizens to vote at 17 or even 16 years of age. Proponents argue that this would empower young people, who are already actively engaged in political discussions online, to have a formal voice in shaping their future. Carmen Velarde, Chief of the National Registry of Identification and Civil Status (RENIEC), supports the idea of optional voting at 17 as a form of “pre-citizenship practice,” especially for those already attending university. This move, if implemented, would further amplify the influence of Generation Z on the 2026 elections and beyond. The potential impact of such a change on voter turnout, political engagement, and policy priorities remains a subject of ongoing debate.
The strategic use of different social media platforms is crucial for political campaigns to effectively reach their target audiences. Iriarte observes that platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are primarily used for communications with the press, allowing politicians to disseminate their messages through established media channels. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok, on the other hand, are tailored for engaging younger voters through visually appealing and interactive content. These platforms allow politicians to connect with Generation Z on their terms, addressing issues and concerns relevant to their lives. Finally, platforms like WhatsApp and other messaging services facilitate direct communication with voters, enabling parties and candidates to share their political proposals and mobilize support at a grassroots level. The diverse functionalities of various social media platforms offer a valuable toolset for political campaigns to connect with different voter segments. Mastering this intricate web of digital communication is increasingly critical for success in the modern political arena.