Peru's 196 provinces serve as the second administrative level in the country's three-tier governance structure, positioned between the 25 regions above them and the districts below. Provinces function as intermediate administrative units that coordinate regional policies at a more localized level, typically managing matters such as infrastructure development, education oversight, public health services, and local economic planning. Each province is governed by a provincial municipality led by an elected mayor and council, responsible for implementing national and regional directives while addressing the specific needs of their constituent districts. This intermediate level plays a crucial role in connecting regional government priorities with the day-to-day administration of local communities, facilitating more effective delivery of public services across Peru's diverse geographic and demographic landscape.