Regions of Peru

Clickable map of the departments of Peru

According to the Organic Law of Regional Governments, the regions (Spanish: regiones) are, with the departments, the first-level semi autonomous administrative subdivisions of Peru. Since its 1821 independence, Peru had been divided into departments (Regions)

Peru’s 24 departments each have a regional government and legislature responsible for administration, economic planning, and public services. These governments operate with autonomy while still coordinating with national authorities. Each department is led by a regional governor, who is elected by popular vote for a four-year term. The governor is responsible for implementing regional policies, managing budgets, and overseeing infrastructure projects. Supporting the governor is the regional legislative council, composed of elected representatives from different provinces within the department. This council approves budgets, monitors public investments, and ensures government accountability.

Each department is further divided into provinces, which are governed by provincial municipalities. These municipalities are led by a mayor and a council, also elected by the population. They manage local services such as urban planning, transportation, and sanitation. Within the provinces, there are district municipalities, responsible for more localized governance, including community development, minor public works, and social programs. This three-tiered structure—regional, provincial, and district—ensures that governance reaches all levels, from large cities to rural villages.

Although the departments have autonomy, they still follow national laws and policies set by the central government. The National Decentralized Secretariat, under the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, oversees regional governments to ensure efficiency and compliance. Departments also coordinate with national ministries for education, health, transportation, and security, receiving funding and technical support. This structure allows departments to manage their own affairs while maintaining a connection to the broader national development strategy.