HCIAS Wednesday Colloquium – Perspectives on Ibero America How do Drug-Trafficking Organizations Shape Political Attitudes? Evidence from Peru

Criminal groups often establish localized orders, reshaping social, political, and economic norms in affected areas. While existing research on crime victimization suggests that security concerns can increase public support for authoritarian measures and “iron fist” policies, there remains limited research on how the presence of criminal organizations and the emergence of criminal governance influence public attitudes. Dr Ramírez Bustamante contends that the hierarchical structure typical of these groups may make citizens living in areas with a perceived presence of drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) more likely to get used to vertical forms of authority, diminishing their support for democratic systems. Moreover, she argues that because these illicit actors often exert control over ballot access, political campaigns, and voting processes – ultimately influencing political participation – citizens in these areas may view elections as less inclusive, free, or fair, contributing to decreased trust in the electoral process.