Alberto Fujimori, who served as the president of Peru from 1990 to 2000, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for crimes against humanity, which included specific orders for killings and kidnappings carried out by security forces during his presidency. His administration was characterized by aggressive tactics to combat the Shining Path guerrilla group and other leftist movements, which often resulted in human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances. The trial and subsequent sentencing occurred after Fujimori returned to Peru from Japan in 2005, where he had been living in exile since his resignation in the face of a corruption scandal in 2000. His trial was a critical moment in Peru's ongoing efforts to address past atrocities and hold those in power accountable for human rights abuses.

Many victims' families and human rights activists had long sought justice, reflecting the societal desire to reconcile with a violent past. The trial drew international attention, questioning how democracies deal with past authoritarian regimes and the complexities surrounding justice for war crimes. The sentencing was also significant in the context of Latin America's broader struggle with political repression and human rights violations during the late 20th century.

Fujimori's sentencing set a precedent in Peru and contributed to a national conversation about democracy, accountability, and the lasting effects of political violence on society. It demonstrated a commitment to justice, despite the challenges posed by political divisions and Fujimori's continued popular support among certain segments of the population, highlighting deep societal rifts regarding perceptions of his legacy.