Keiko Fujimori imposes dress code in Peruvian schools

Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori, who has been in office for two months, has ordered the implementation of a strict dress code for public school students. The measure, announced this week, bans the use of face makeup, nail polish, hair dye and short skirts for girls, as well as restricting long hairstyles for boys. The decision is seen by analysts as a nod to El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, known for policies of strong social control.

The standard, which is already in force, establishes strict standards of appearance for students of the Peruvian public network. According to the official statement, the intention is to promote discipline and equality among students, avoiding distractions and possible discrimination based on appearance. However, critics point out that the measure represents an excessive interference in individual freedom and can reinforce gender stereotypes.

Detailed rules for girls and boys

For female students, the code explicitly prohibits the use of makeup on the face, nail polish, and hair dye. In addition, the short skirts are vetoed, and the students must opt for lengths considered appropriate by the school management. For boys, the restriction falls on the length of the hair, which should not exceed the limits established by the norm.

The Peruvian public schools have received guidance to monitor compliance with the new rules, and may apply disciplinary sanctions in case of non-compliance. The source did not detail what the punishments would be, but indicated that each institution will have autonomy to define the internal procedures. The measure covers the entire national territory, affecting millions of students.

Bukele's influence and political context

The approach of Keiko Fujimori with the style of government of Nayib Bukele is not new. Since assuming the presidency, the conservative has adopted speeches and practices aligned with the authoritarianism of the Salvadoran leader, who has gained notoriety for measures such as the mass arrest of alleged criminals and the rigid control of the prison population. The new educational policy is interpreted as another step in this direction.

Education experts warn that such strict dress rules can generate resistance among young people and negatively impact the school environment. On the other hand, supporters of the measure argue that it contributes to order and focus in the studies. The debate is expected to intensify in the coming weeks as schools begin to apply the new guidelines.

Reactions of society and next steps

Human rights organizations and student movements have already spoken out against the code, classifying it as a form of social control and limitation of individual expression. By contrast, conservative sectors praised the initiative, stating that it rescues traditional and disciplinary values. The source did not detail whether there will be a public consultation or revision of the measure.

The Peruvian Ministry of Education should publish a detailed guide for schools, clarifying doubts about the application of the rules. Meanwhile, the international community is watching closely the developments, especially in the face of Bukele’s history and the growing influence of authoritarian leaders in Latin America. The matter continues to be updated as new information is released.

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