The member unions of the National Federation of Mining Workers initiated their long-heralded national strike on 19 July. They were protesting over the government’s proposed labour reforms, which will reduce job security and eliminate compensation for years of service. It is reported that 5,000 miners took part in a march in Lima which blocked the Plaza de Armas and led to the use of tear gas.

The main mines affected claimed that the strike had little effect, as the long advance notice had enabled them to make alternative arrangements.

After three days, the labour minister and the Federation agreed on a special commission to analyse the unions’ concerns. It was due to start work on 1 August and to take 30 days. The minister, Alfonso Grados, was to lead the commission. Miners have accordingly returned to work.