PEX Justino Alarcon # 3 Renovacion Popular - candidato al Congreso. Elecciones Peru 2021

Introduction Welcome and Background

• Justino Alarcón introduces himself as a candidate for Congress representing Peruvians abroad with the Popular Renewal party.

• Justino shares his background, mentioning he is from Apurímac and migrated to Lima due to difficult conditions in the 1980s.

• He describes Luxembourg's unique linguistic situation and its role in European integration.

Career Journey Education and Work Experience

• Justino discusses his diverse work experience, including studies in various countries and working in finance.

• He specialized in microfinance, working across multiple continents before returning to Peru.

• After losing his job during the U.S. crisis, he decided to become independent and invest back in Peru.

Life as a Migrant Challenges and Adaptations

• Justino reflects on the challenges of being a migrant, balancing life between different countries.

• He mentions how the pandemic affected his business operations and family connections abroad.

• Describes adapting back to life in Peru while maintaining ties with his businesses overseas.

Community Engagement Involvement in Social Initiatives

• Justino highlights his long-term commitment to social work through various associations over 20 years.

• He emphasizes collaboration with cultural ministries and organizations to support community initiatives.

• Discusses efforts made towards achieving representation for expatriates within political structures.

Journey to Luxembourg

Initial Thoughts on Political Engagement

• Expressed happiness about gaining support from 122 congress members, highlighting the effort involved in political work.

• Transitioned from passive observation to active participation in politics after studying political science.

Migration Experience

• Discussed the lack of tourism in Peru during the late '80s and international agreements with Russia.

• Mentioned Aeroflot's role in connecting various Latin American countries to Russia amidst Cold War dynamics.

Arrival in Luxembourg

• Described Aeroflot's extensive travel routes, including stops at various countries before reaching Luxembourg.

• Chose to disembark in Luxembourg due to its accessibility to other European cities and its intriguing nature.

Cultural Observations

• Noted Luxembourg's unique linguistic borders and cultural diversity, emphasizing multilingualism as a norm.

• Appreciated the educational support system that welcomed students regardless of their origin.

Reflections on Development and Education

• Highlighted personal growth since leaving Peru at age 19 with limited resources.

• Emphasized the importance of human development, negotiation skills, and collaborative problem-solving within diverse groups.

Comparisons Between Europe and Latin America

• Compared European parliamentary processes favorably against those in Latin America regarding constructive dialogue.

• Critiqued the lack of effective solutions in Latin American politics while praising Europe's ability to reach agreements despite challenges.

Importance of Political Collaboration

• European politicians often work together to convince others to follow a unified path, which is essential for progress.

• Emphasizes the need for dialogue and conciliation in Peru, prioritizing national interests over personal or political agendas.

• Suggests that existing laws and projects can be revived rather than creating new ones from scratch.

The Role of Congress Members

• Advocates for congress members who focus on local issues rather than international trips; emphasizes negotiation at home.

• Highlights the challenge of passing legislation with only two congress members, stressing the need for broader support.

• Urges collaboration between opposing parties to gather necessary votes for legislative success.

Legislative Challenges and Strategies

• Discusses potential obstacles in passing laws, particularly regarding immigration and nationality recovery.

• Warns against inaction during congressional terms; stresses urgency in achieving results within five years.

• Shares personal background as a businessman involved in family enterprises and investments across various sectors.

Business Ventures and Community Support

• Describes efforts to maintain family businesses while adapting to challenges posed by the pandemic.

• Mentions providing resources for small entrepreneurs, including licenses and facilities to operate businesses effectively.

• Aims to help informal micro-businesses grow through guidance on formalization and accounting practices.

Introduction to Business Challenges

• Many individuals change their business focus after realizing it doesn't suit them; experience gained is valuable despite initial costs.

• The speaker reflects on their first visit to Peru 10 years ago, noting significant changes and opportunities in the country.

• Difficulty in finding work due to lack of recognition for foreign qualifications; no agreements between Luxembourg and Peru complicate employment.

Struggles with Employment

• The speaker faced challenges when trying to work in large companies due to language barriers and misunderstanding of qualifications.

• Negotiating job offers was tough; the speaker felt evaluated while also assessing potential employers.

• Many accept unfavorable job conditions out of necessity, highlighting a tough job market.

Starting a Business Journey

• After unsuccessful attempts at state jobs, the speaker decided to start their own business despite financial hurdles.

• Faced rejection from banks for loans due to lack of credit history; determined to invest personal assets instead.

• Sold all possessions in Luxembourg to fund business ventures independently.

Education and Political Aspirations

• Transitioned into entrepreneurship driven by necessity; sought further education in political science for better understanding of Peru.

• Studied government topics alongside diverse peers aiming for political participation, gaining insights into local realities.

Political Engagement and Opportunities

• Extended studies beyond typical duration due to ongoing learning needs; prepared for political candidacy through education.

• Aimed for congressional representation, motivated by collective efforts with others seeking similar goals.

Joining Renovación Popular Party

• Joined Renovación Popular after an invitation linked to educational connections within the government institute.

• Emphasized the importance of having support from established figures within any political party.

Introduction to Political Involvement

• Speaker discusses their entry into politics under an experienced mentor, highlighting the ease of participation in a supportive environment.

• Expresses satisfaction with their political party, noting minimal personal expenses and reliance on social media for campaigning.

Upcoming Elections and Plans

• Mentions election date and plans to travel to Luxembourg regardless of the outcome.

Proposed Projects for Peruvians Abroad

• States that previous discussions have covered all necessary topics; emphasizes focus on three key issues.

• Advocates for a constitutional chapter recognizing immigrants' contributions to society.

Importance of Immigrant Recognition

• Highlights the need for acknowledgment of 3.5 million Peruvians abroad who have contributed economically over decades.

Comprehensive Support for Immigrants

• Argues that immigrant rights encompass various aspects beyond just work or education; stresses holistic support from the state.

Personal Experiences with Immigration Laws

• Shares personal experiences regarding legal status in Belgium and contrasts it with challenges faced in Italy regarding retirement funds.

Collaboration for Constitutional Changes

• Emphasizes the importance of working together across political lines to push forward immigration-related constitutional changes.

Recovery of Nationality Rights

• Proposes that all Peruvians born in Peru should retain nationality throughout life, citing examples of those who lost it unjustly.

Impact on Children Affected by Terrorism

• Discusses children from Ayacucho affected by terrorism, emphasizing their loss of identity and need for national recognition.

Addressing Identity Loss Among Adopted Children

• Highlights struggles faced by adopted children in Luxembourg seeking to reclaim their Peruvian nationality despite lacking documentation.

Importance of Updating Migration Laws

• Emphasizes the need to update migration laws that are outdated and not well specified.

• Highlights the lack of a consulate in Luxembourg, despite its status as a European capital.

• Critiques Peru's absence in strategic locations like Luxembourg, affecting representation.

Need for Better Representation

• Discusses past mentions of Luxembourg by former President Humala regarding financial recovery.

• Stresses the importance of being represented during diplomatic missions and events.

• Shares experiences from the Milan World Expo where Peru was unrepresented due to budget issues.

Economic Opportunities and Government Responsibility

• Argues that Peruvian entrepreneurs abroad could contribute significantly if given opportunities.

• Acknowledges government limitations but insists on leveraging existing resources effectively.

• Calls for a shift in mindset among diplomats regarding their roles in international settings.

Engagement with Luxembourg

• Notes that Luxembourg has engaged economically with Peru while Peru has not reciprocated visits.

• Mentions that only one Peruvian visited Luxembourg in 30 years, highlighting missed opportunities.

Challenges Faced by Peruvians Abroad

• Discusses the challenges faced by Peruvians who renounced their nationality for integration into Luxembourg.

• Estimates around 400 to 1000 Peruvians living unofficially in Luxembourg.

Discussion on Nationality and Representation

• Losing nationality is a significant punishment, affecting not only individuals but also their children.

• Countries must have consular representation based on the needs of their citizens abroad; improvements are needed in various locations.

• Issues faced by Peruvians vary significantly depending on their location, highlighting the need for tailored solutions.

Engagement with the Peruvian Community Abroad

• Accessing dispersed Peruvian communities will involve utilizing social media and existing networks within embassies.

• Personal experiences at international events show strong connections among Peruvians, regardless of where they were born.

• Collaboration through social media and consulates is essential for maintaining community ties and addressing issues.

Congresses and International Days

• Various congresses have been organized by Peruvians in different countries to discuss challenges and advancements.

• October 18 is recognized as the Day of Peru Abroad, while December 18 is International Migrant Day per UN conventions.

• These gatherings foster relationships among Peruvians globally, allowing them to share experiences and concerns.

Challenges Faced During the Pandemic

• The pandemic disrupted regular meetings; however, efforts continued through virtual platforms like Zoom.

• Ongoing communication with congress members has been crucial for advocating for expatriate rights and representation.

European Experience vs. Other Regions

• European countries offer easier access for collaboration compared to the more fragmented nature of states in the U.S.

• The unique dynamics of representing a global community require innovative approaches moving forward.

What is the Experience of Peruvians Abroad in Congress?

Overview of Representation

• Discussion on the need for a blank slate regarding representation for Peruvians abroad.

• Importance of U.S. representation due to a large Peruvian population; mentions Argentina and Chile as potential electoral bases.

Challenges in Europe

• Europe has fewer Peruvians, making it challenging to establish strong representation; Spain and Italy are highlighted.

• Acknowledgment that Peruvians will remain a minority and must create alliances for effective representation.

Strategic Planning

• Emphasis on increasing the number of representatives from abroad to reflect the population size.

• Need for a strategic plan post-elections with short, medium, and long-term projects for expatriates.

Learning from Other Countries

• Inquiry about other countries with similar congressional representation experiences; mentions Ecuador and Mexico as examples.

• Highlights that some countries have established ministries or organizations for their citizens abroad.

Political Dynamics

• Recognition that establishing two congress members follows global trends rather than creating something new.

• Discussion on supporting elected representatives regardless of personal outcomes in elections.

First-Time Candidacy Insights

• The candidate's first experience running for Congress; commitment to stay with their political party.

• Importance of gaining support within their political group to ensure effective representation.

Reflections on Life in Luxembourg and Peru

Current Situation

• The speaker discusses daily conversations with family in Luxembourg, expressing a desire to work and move forward despite challenges.

• Acknowledges the difficulties faced during the year, including health concerns and business struggles, with significant losses reported.

• Reflects on the responsibilities of business ownership during crises, highlighting the need for daily decision-making.

Personal Impact

• Shares personal experiences of being away from family for an extended period due to circumstances.

• Emphasizes emotional strain from not seeing loved ones while maintaining regular communication.

Youth Reactions and Political Engagement

• Discusses youth reactions to political changes since 2020, comparing current protests to past experiences in the 1980s.

• Expresses solidarity with young protesters while acknowledging personal vulnerabilities related to age and health.

Voting Responsibility

• Stresses the importance of thoughtful voting for stability in governance, urging citizens to consider their choices carefully.

• Advocates for long-term commitment to elected representatives rather than frequent changes that lead to instability.

Collective Efforts for Change

• Highlights the necessity of collaboration among all citizens in contributing positively towards national progress.

• Calls for new political approaches that ensure continuity in governance and collective responsibility among politicians.

Future Outlook

• Commits to observing election outcomes closely and supporting effective leadership regardless of personal electoral success.

• Celebrates unity among candidates working together towards common goals, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example.

The Impact of Peruvian Gastronomy and Perspectives

• A Peruvian's experience abroad offers a new perspective on Peru, highlighting the importance of viewing the country from outside.

• Congress members should focus on understanding the needs of Peruvians abroad to better assist them.

• There are opportunities for Peruvians abroad to contribute positively to Peru through collaboration with government and private sectors.

Influencing Change from Abroad

• Discussion on how expatriates can influence positive change in Peru beyond just changing mindsets.

• Example of annual congresses for Peruvian scientists in Europe aimed at finding solutions for Peru.

• These gatherings allow researchers to collaborate and share knowledge beneficial to their home country.

Academic Contributions and Challenges

• Many researchers want to help academically but face barriers due to lack of invitations or recognition.

• Importance of promoting academic contributions from expatriates; organizations like Pronavec have significant roles.

• Current scholarship systems need improvement; legal frameworks differ across countries affecting access.

Addressing Educational Inequities

• Calls for equitable treatment in education costs for Peruvian students abroad compared to European peers.

• Emphasis on the need for government action to ensure fair pricing in educational institutions overseas.

• Investing in education is crucial as it leads to future researchers who can contribute back to Peru.

Viewing Education as an Investment

• Education should be approached from a business perspective, focusing on returns and benefits for society.

• Challenges exist in recognizing foreign qualifications; each case requires careful consideration due to varying laws.

• Personal anecdotes highlight difficulties faced by students seeking recognition of their studies abroad.

Experiences with International Education Systems

• Sharing experiences about navigating educational systems in different countries reveals systemic challenges.

Discussion on Nobel Prizes and Education

• The speaker discusses the significance of having six Nobel laureates in physics from their region, comparing it to other universities.

• Emphasizes the need for investment in youth education to achieve future Nobel prizes in physics, highlighting the importance of research funding.

• Expresses gratitude for the interview and notes a positive change in camaraderie among candidates.

Call to Action for Voting

• The speaker thanks Milabaro and encourages all Peruvians to participate in voting, stressing its importance now more than ever.

• Concludes with well wishes for Justino and expresses hope for continued work towards community goals.