Santiago Peña

Santiago Peña Palacios (Spanish pronunciation: [sanˈtjaɣo ˈpeɲa paˈlasjos]; born 16 November 1978) is a Paraguayan politician, economist, and conservative who has served as the 52nd president of Paraguay since August 15, 2023. A member of the National Republican Association–Colorado Party, Peña is associated with policies emphasizing economic stability, national sovereignty, and market-oriented reforms.

Before entering politics full-time, Peña worked in economic and financial institutions, including roles connected to Paraguay’s central banking system and private banking sector. He also taught economics at the Catholic University of Asunción and pursued graduate studies, including a Master’s in Public Administration from Columbia University.

Peña's political trajectory reflects alignment with conservative economic principles. After previously affiliating with the Authentic Radical Liberal Party, he joined the Colorado Party in 2016. The party has historically promoted conservative social values, limited government, and private-sector-led growth.

As Finance Minister from 2015 to 2017, Peña was associated with fiscal management policies during a period of regional economic challenges. His approach has been described by analysts as consistent with orthodox macroeconomic policy frameworks.

Following his election in 2023, Peña has emphasized economic development, investment promotion, and maintaining diplomatic relations with countries such as Taiwan and Israel (including relocating the embassy to Jerusalem). His foreign policy positioning has been noted in commentary as aligning with pro-Western and market-oriented international perspectives.