Peru Awaits 2026’s Symbolic Name, Continuing a Centuries-Old Tradition
Peru is poised to announce the official designation for the year 2026, continuing a practice established in 1963 where each year is assigned a symbolic name reflecting national values and priorities. While the name remains undisclosed, the selection process is underway, with an announcement expected in the coming weeks. The tradition, rooted in ancient customs seen across various countries, has evolved in Peru to focus on highlighting key national interests.
Currently, the year 2026 does not have an official name. However, once approved by a supreme decree, its use will be mandatory for all public entities in official documents and communications. Private sector adoption will be discretionary.
The naming of the year 2025 provides insight into this process. The government of Dina Boluarte designated 2025 as the “Year of the Bicentennial of José Faustino Sánchez Carrión,” a tribute to a pivotal figure in Peru’s independence. This decision, originating from a proposal by César Acuña of the Regional Government of La Libertad, aimed to honor a key historical figure from the region. While the official document confirming the designation is still pending publication, the decision has been known for several months.
This practice of assigning annual themes dates back to 1963, when former President Fernando Belaúnde Terry mandated that the government in power assign an official name to each year. This name is then used by all public institutions throughout the subsequent 12 months.
Who Was José Faustino Sánchez Carrión?
José Faustino Sánchez Carrión, born on February 13, 1787, in Huamachuco, La Libertad, played a crucial role in shaping Peru’s early identity. His father, Agustín Sánchez Carrión, was involved in mining and ranching, and also held administrative positions, including postmaster and mayor of Huamachuco.
Following his mother’s death in 1802, Sánchez Carrión initially attended the Royal Seminary of San Carlos and San Marcelo in Trujillo before moving to Lima to study Law at the San Carlos Convictory. He became actively involved in political affairs in 1812, supporting José Matías Vázquez de Acuña, count of Vega del Ren, in the elections for the Cortes of Cádiz.
Sánchez Carrión’s contributions extended to journalism and constitutional development. In 1822, he co-founded the newspaper La Abeja Republicana with Francisco Javier Mariátegui and began writing his influential letters signed “El Solitario de Sayán.” He served as secretary of the First Constituent Congress and later became a member of the Constitution Commission alongside prominent figures like Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza and Hipólito Unanue.
He was also instrumental in inviting Simón Bolívar to continue the fight for independence, traveling to Guayaquil alongside the poet Olmedo. Sánchez Carrión held several ministerial positions, including General Minister of Business in 1824 and Minister of Government and Foreign Relations in 1825, even serving on a governing council alongside La Mar and Unanue.
The annual naming tradition in Peru, therefore, serves not only as a symbolic gesture but also as a means of honoring significant figures and reinforcing national values as the country moves forward. The anticipation for the 2026 designation reflects the continued importance of this practice in Peruvian society.
