Ministry of Culture (Peru)

The Ministry of Culture (Spanish: Ministerio de Cultura) of Peru is the government ministry responsible for promoting, preserving, and protecting Peruvian culture, including its tangible and intangible heritage, artistic expressions, and cultural diversity. Established in 2010, it replaced the National Institute of Culture (INC), assuming its functions and responsibilities with a broadened scope and enhanced institutional capacity.

The Ministry's primary objectives include developing and implementing national cultural policies, safeguarding archaeological sites and historical monuments, promoting intercultural dialogue, supporting artistic creation and dissemination, and fostering citizen participation in cultural life. It works to recognize, protect, and promote the rights of Indigenous peoples and Afro-Peruvians, ensuring their cultural expression and participation in national development.

Key areas of focus for the Ministry include:

• Cultural Heritage: Conservation, restoration, and management of archaeological sites, historical monuments, and cultural landscapes. This involves research, documentation, and protection measures to prevent looting, illegal trafficking, and environmental degradation.
• Intangible Cultural Heritage: Recognition, promotion, and safeguarding of traditional knowledge, customs, oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and festive events. This includes supporting communities in preserving their cultural heritage and transmitting it to future generations.
• Interculturality: Promotion of dialogue, understanding, and respect between different cultures within Peru. This involves developing programs that address discrimination, promote cultural diversity, and foster intercultural citizenship.
• Arts and Creative Industries: Support for artistic creation, production, and dissemination in various disciplines, including visual arts, performing arts, literature, music, and audiovisual media. This includes providing grants, residencies, training, and platforms for artists and cultural organizations.
• Museums and Libraries: Management and development of national museums and libraries, ensuring access to cultural resources for the public. This involves improving collections, exhibitions, and educational programs.

The Ministry of Culture operates through a decentralized structure, with regional directorates and specialized agencies responsible for implementing cultural policies and programs at the local level. It collaborates with other government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners to achieve its goals. The Ministry is headed by a Minister of Culture, who is appointed by the President of Peru.