Part 1: Children, Employment & Poverty

In this insightful podcast episode, Professor Norma Correa explores how Peru’s strict and prolonged lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted education and poverty. The lockdowns led to a sharp rise in poverty levels from 20 percent to 30 percent, particularly in urban areas where informal employment was as high as 72 percent. Government interventions, such as cash transfers and company financing, offered some relief, but many vulnerable groups were overlooked. Civil society initiatives, stepped in to support those in need, highlighting the resilience of local communities. Rural regions faced additional struggles, with limited access to healthcare and essential services worsening existing inequalities. The enforcement of strict measures by the military and police further highlighted the challenges faced by Peru during this period. Despite its harsh lockdown Peru was one of the worst hit countries in the world for Covid deaths.

Listen to the full podcast on your favourite podcast app.

About Norma Correa Aste

Professor and Researcher, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.

Norma is a Peruvian anthropologist specialising in social policy and development. As the mother of two girls, Norma became a high profile advocate for school and university reopening and better pandemic responses for children, youth and vulnerable families in Peru and Latin America.

X (formerly twitter) @nb_correa

About Lucy Johnston

Lucy is Health and Social Affairs editor of the The Sunday Express and also works as a freelance journalist for a range of national print and broadcast press. Previous roles include Assistant Editor at the Big Issue and investigative journalist at the Observer. Lucy had a pivotal role setting up The Big Issue magazine in the UK. 

X (formerly twitter) @thelucyjohnston

Why not subscribe to our YouTube channel to be the first to hear about the latest episode release.