By Redaccion
[email protected]
For the fourth time, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared a state of emergency, citing the need to “reinforce security measures” in response to escalating violence and armed internal conflict.
The latest decree, announced on Thursday, will last for 60 days and is aimed at curbing growing unrest and organized crime across multiple provinces.
The state of emergency will be enforced in six provinces: Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Orellana, Santa Elena, and El Oro. Additionally, it will include the canton of Camilo Ponce Enríquez in Azuay and the Metropolitan District of Quito in the province of Pichincha. The government justified the measure, arguing it was necessary to address what it described as a “grave internal disturbance and armed internal conflict.”
“The presidential decision has been made to strengthen the operations of the Armed Forces and the National Police in their efforts to defend the state’s sovereignty, public safety, and national order,” read a statement from the presidency.
The decree includes the imposition of a nightly curfew, restricting freedom of movement from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. in several areas. Affected locations include Camilo Ponce Enríquez in Azuay, Durán, Balao, and Tenguel parish in Guayas, and numerous cantons in Los Ríos and Orellana. Among those in Los Ríos are Babahoyo, Buena Fe, Quevedo, and Vinces, while in Orellana, the restrictions cover Joya de los Sachas, Puerto Francisco de Orellana, and Loreto.
This latest emergency declaration comes in the wake of an increasingly tense security situation in Ecuador, marked by the spread of organized crime and a wave of violent incidents across the nation. President Noboa had previously declared a state of internal armed conflict in January, as crime rates surged and local gangs wielded growing influence, prompting concerns from citizens and international observers alike.
The government has pointed to the rising threat of organized criminal groups as the primary reason behind the state of emergency. These groups, many of which are connected to drug trafficking, have expanded their operations, making the situation on the ground increasingly precarious for residents. Violent incidents, including kidnappings, shootings, and bombings, have become more frequent, leading to a palpable sense of fear in affected areas.
Background: Rising Crime and Organized Violence
Ecuador, once known for its relative stability in the region, has seen a significant rise in crime rates in recent years. Analysts point to the country’s strategic location along major drug routes, which has drawn the attention of powerful cartels and led to the formation of local criminal groups seeking to control the lucrative trade. Violence between rival groups and their confrontations with security forces have led to a mounting toll of casualties.
In response, President Noboa has repeatedly resorted to states of emergency as a key tool to tackle these challenges. Since assuming office, Noboa has faced criticism over his reliance on emergency measures, which allow the deployment of the military and the suspension of certain civil rights. However, the administration insists these steps are necessary to maintain control and protect the populace.
The scope of the emergency measures has expanded with each subsequent decree. This latest order not only reinforces the presence of armed forces in the streets but also imposes further restrictions on freedom of movement. For residents of affected areas, the curfew represents a necessary trade-off to restore some semblance of order amid the chaos.
Despite the efforts, critics argue that the repeated use of emergency powers could undermine democratic norms. “There is concern that constant states of emergency are becoming the default rather than addressing the underlying causes of violence,” said political analyst María Fernanda Ortiz. “The government needs a comprehensive plan that includes economic and social components to break the cycle of violence and prevent more young people from joining these criminal organizations.”
Citizens Caught in the Crossfire
For many Ecuadorians, the consequences of this prolonged state of emergency are deeply felt. Businesses are forced to close earlier, children have their schooling disrupted, and daily routines have been upended. In cities like Guayaquil and Durán, residents speak of a constant climate of fear, with violent incidents often taking place in public areas.
“It’s not easy to live like this. You don’t know if you’ll be safe coming home,” said José Martínez, a shop owner in Durán. “The curfews are meant to protect us, but they also remind us of how dangerous things have become.”
Authorities have emphasized their commitment to tackling crime, but the effectiveness of these measures remains in question. Analysts note that the focus on military deployment might provide short-term relief but risks leaving deeper, systemic issues unaddressed. The root causes of crime in Ecuador — including poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education — require longer-term, sustainable solutions.
A Call for International Support
Amid the deteriorating security situation, Ecuador has also sought help from the international community. President Noboa has appealed for greater cooperation on combating organized crime and drug trafficking, calling on neighboring countries to coordinate efforts to curb the flow of drugs through the region.
The United Nations and various international organizations have voiced concern over the violence, with several agencies offering technical assistance to improve policing and judicial capacity. Still, many Ecuadorians are skeptical about whether any intervention will produce immediate results.
As the state of emergency takes effect, citizens and political observers alike are left questioning what the future holds for Ecuador. While the government remains steadfast in its promise to restore order, the path ahead appears fraught with challenges, with no easy solutions in sight. President Noboa’s latest decree underscores his administration’s determination to fight crime, but whether these emergency measures will bring lasting peace remains to be seen.
