In Peru, 8 girls face violence during a football match; sports initiative aims to prevent it

While millions follow the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, a stark reality in Peru reveals that approximately eight girls and adolescents suffer some form of violence during the 90 minutes of a football match. This alarming statistic is highlighted by the regional campaign "Cambiemos el Juego" (Let's Change the Game), launched by Plan International. The initiative aims to draw attention to the widespread problem affecting thousands of minors and promote sports as a safe space for protection and development. According to data from the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations, over 43,855 cases involving children and adolescents were registered in 2025, averaging 120 reports daily. Between 2021 and 2025, services attended to 295,195 situations related to minors, underscoring the persistent nature of this violence. Sexual violence accounted for the largest share of cases last year, with 19,692 reports, followed by psychological, physical, and economic aggression. Plan International's campaign seeks to empower girls and adolescents through sports, fostering self-esteem, leadership, and participation. The organization believes these activities can prevent risky situations and promote respectful relationships. "We are promoting initiatives to confront inequalities through more inclusive sports programs. Sport not only promotes physical and emotional well-being; it is also a tool and an opportunity for improvement for thousands of girls," stated Víctor García Hernández, the organization's representative. The "Juegos por la Igualdad" (Games for Equality) program, part of this effort, has reached over 17,000 schoolchildren in Loreto, Piura, and Cusco, focusing on identifying warning signs, reporting channels, and personal resilience skills.