Puno

In June 2021, an ecotourism initiative was launched in Puno to promote sustainable tourism around Lake Titicaca. The project aimed to involve local communities in tourism activities that respect the environment and indigenous cultures while providing economic benefits. This initiative was seen as a model for balancing economic development with environmental conservation in sensitive areas.

On March 15, 2020, Puno, along with the rest of Peru, entered a strict lockdown to combat the spread of COVID-19. The lockdown had significant impacts on the local economy and daily life, with markets and schools closing and movement restricted. These measures were part of a nationwide effort to control the pandemic, highlighting challenges in healthcare and governance in dealing with the virus in remote regions.

In 2019, Puno witnessed large-scale protests as part of nationwide demands for stronger anti-corruption measures. Citizens marched in the streets calling for governmental transparency and accountability. The protests in Puno were highlighted by their peaceful nature and the participation of diverse groups, showcasing a unified demand for clean governance across Peru.

The Virgen de la Candelaria Festival, which took place on February 2, 2018, in Puno, is one of the largest cultural celebrations in Peru. It features music, dance, and religious ceremonies that attract thousands of visitors annually. This festival is a vivid display of the region's cultural heritage and has been recognized by UNESCO. The event plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in Puno.

On October 9, 2015, Puno celebrated the recognition by UNESCO of the 'La Diablada' dance as intangible cultural heritage. This traditional dance is a significant part of the cultural identity in Puno, especially during the annual festival of the Virgen de la Candelaria. The designation highlighted the cultural richness of Puno and drew international attention to its traditional practices.

In 2013, disputes over the use and pollution of Lake Titicaca, which affects both Peru and Bolivia, led to conflicts among local communities and authorities in the Puno region. The tension was fueled by the environmental degradation of the lake, a crucial resource for the livelihood and culture of indigenous people. A series of protests occurred, demanding action from both national governments to resolve environmental and jurisdictional issues.

On May 27, 2011, protests erupted in Puno against mining activities, particularly targeting mining concessions granted without adequate consultation with local communities. The protests were part of a regional strike and demonstrated the deep-rooted concerns of local populations regarding environmental protection and the impacts of mining. This unrest led to the government taking action to address community concerns.

In 2009, significant strikes and protests erupted in Puno, led by indigenous groups demanding better rights, land reform, and autonomy. This series of events was part of broader tensions across Peru as indigenous groups felt marginalized and opposed to laws and projects impacting their land. The strikes drew national attention, resulting in government negotiations on indigenous rights.

On January 1, 2004, an incident occurred in the city of Puno where students and local protesters replaced the official Peruvian national flag with a symbolic flag representing the indigenous people. This act was intended to support regional autonomy and promote recognition for indigenous rights. The move was part of a broader context of social unrest and demands for political reform in the region.

The Andahuaylazo uprising was an event that took place in 2000 when retired Peruvian army major Antauro Humala and his supporters took over the police station in the town of Andahuaylas, near Puno. The group was advocating for a nationalistic and redistributive political program. The rebellion was part of a broader movement against the government of then-President Alberto Fujimori, contributing to instability and political shifts in Peru.