Erotic statues in Peru are challenging taboos
Ancient art has started a national conversation about sex
Peru is socially conservative, especially when it comes to sex. It was, after all, the former seat of the Spanish empire in South America, which punished sodomy, masturbation and sex outside marriage with lashings and death. Today, gay couples cannot marry and women are allowed abortions only if their lives are at risk. Prissy parents have a veto over sex education in schools. Politicians embrace the status quo. Antauro Humala, a former convict who is now aspiring to run for president, uses a slur when referring to gay people.
This article appeared in the The Americas section of the print edition under the headline “Sex pots”
From the January 14th 2023 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents
Explore the editionMore from The Americas
Canada and America have been fighting about timber for 40 years
As Donald Trump takes office, the chances of a lumber deal look slim
Justin Trudeau steps down, leaving a wrecked party and a divided Canada
Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland are among those tipped as the next Liberal leader
Does made in Mexico mean made by China?
Donald Trump believes Mexico is a trojan horse for Chinese mercantilism
Failure to prepare for climate change is costing Honduras dear
Weeks after the most recent storm, the country is still in emergency mode
Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro looks set to take the throne
Relying on a fabricated election victory, the incumbent will be sworn in again
Why Spanish firms have cooled towards Latin America
Slow growth and messy politics are largely to blame