Paraguay - September 2025

On 28 September, Paraguay witnessed protests led by youth activists identifying as 'Generation Z', demanding greater accountability, social justice and democratic reform. Organised via social media, citizens gathered in Asunción to denounce corruption linked to the Peña administration, including allegations of concealed cash at the presidential residence, and to highlight the government’s failure to provide adequate security, healthcare and public services. Despite the estimated turnout of 600 to 1,000 protesters, the government deployed 3,000 police officers. The response resulted in 31 arrests, with reports of excessive force and rights violations. Paraguay’s National Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture condemned the detentions, highlighting arbitrary arrests, denial of medical care, and prolonged detention without legal counsel or due process. Similarly, the Chamber of Deputies condemned the police response, highlighting concerns over the protection of democratic freedoms in the country.

Sources: Deutsche Welle, Tele Sur, La República, EU SEE, Cámara de Diputados