Peru as a donor and recipient: successes and challenges of South-South cooperation

Relevance: In the context of the growing role of the countries of the Global South and the strengthening of regional integration of Iberoamerica, the analysis of South–South cooperation practices is becoming key to developing effective strategies for sustainable development. Using the example of Peru, the mechanisms that allow Latin American and Caribbean countries to combine national priorities with international initiatives are being explored.

Novelty: The novelty of the study lies in a detailed analysis of the transformation of Peru into an active participant in the conflict. This work highlights the dual role of Peru as a donor and recipient of knowledge. Special attention is paid to modern institutional mechanisms, such as the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation (APCI), established in 2002, and the National Strategic Development Plan until 2050 (PEDN). The analysis also includes the Ibero-American Sur–Sur Cooperation Strengthening Program (PIFCSS) and trilateral schemes with the EU (ADELANTE, AECID). These aspects are relatively poorly studied in the existing literature, which adds value to the work.

Methodology:
1. Content analysis of official news, press releases, and regulations (2002-2025).
2. Collection and structuring of statistical data on CSU projects (trade volumes, number of initiatives).
3. Case studies of several trilateral projects, including the FAO–Peru–Brazil cotton project.

Scientific results: 
1. The central role of the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation (APCI) and PEDN 2050 as system-forming elements is revealed. 
2. Triangular schemes have been proven to facilitate technology transfer and strengthen national capacities. 
3. In 2020-2021. Peru has implemented 253 SUU initiatives, of which 25% are in the role of a donor, 25% are recipients and 50% are mixed. 

Conclusion: The data obtained demonstrate that Peru has managed to build an integrated approach to SUI, combining national strategic plans with multilateral initiatives. However, securing funding and creating sustainable performance monitoring mechanisms remain key challenges.