by Astrid Arellano on November 24, 2023 The Cerro de Arcos reserve was founded in 2020, in southern Ecuador, to protect an endemic bird: the blue-throated star hummingbird (Oreotrochilus cyanolaemus), of which it is estimated that only between 80 to 110 mature individuals exist in the world. The proliferation of pine monocultures, livestock and frequent bush burning […]

Daniel Noboa has taken on the responsibility of leading a nation that is teetering on the edge of defaulting on its international loans, facing a potential increase in the poverty rate, and encountering limited options for securing additional funding.

New reunification process for Ecuadorian nationals targets migrants whose family members are legal permanent residents or citizens of the U.S.

Saquisilí, in the Cotopaxi province, is waiting on census results before they make a move, but in the Tungurahua town of Salasaca, the mayor says there are ready to use ‘indigenous justice’ to clear out foreigners.

President Daniel Noboa is implementing a reserved policy on strategies to combat organized crime, marking a shift in the security landscape of his government.

Ah, buckle up, folks! Remember those amusement park rides that spun you so fast you’d revisit your lunch in reverse? Yeah, the “Tilt-A-Whirl,” the “Whip,” and the absurdly named “Vomit Comet.” Childhood memories, right? Well, my life recently decided to emulate these nausea-inducing adventures, minus the corndogs and fired clams – although, I wouldn’t mind […]

According to a recent police report, each wing of the Litoral Penitentiary is generating an astonishing $70,000 on a weekly basis. This financial windfall serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive illicit economies thriving within the prison system. As a committee scrutinized the government’s apparent inability to control these underground activities, the second anniversary of the tragic November 12, 2021, massacre at the Litoral Penitentiary was commemorated by groups and relatives of victims.

As expected, criticism has arisen against the incoming Noboa government. After all, his victory was not a landslide—he only secured a 4.6% margin in the vote. Moreover, his experience is limited; he served in the National Assembly for exactly two years, from May 14, 2021, to May 17, 2023 (when President Lasso dissolved the Assembly […]

In the city of Durán, Guayas, a menacing web of violence and power struggles has been intricately woven by three distinct factions of the notorious Chone Killers, creating a volatile landscape that engulfs the entire canton. The backdrop to this chaos is marked by the Latin Kings’ steadfast refusal to form alliances, contributing further to the escalating levels of violence within the city.

In a significant legal development, the Constitutional Court of Ecuador has rendered Executive Decree 754 unconstitutional, dismantling the framework for environmental consultations related to extraction and productive sector projects.

And agreement between ADN, RC and the PSC secured 94 votes in the Assembly, plus other support that depends on the issue. The ruling party managed to add 11 members from local movements and minorities.

In 2023, the government of Ecuador inked investment contracts totaling just under $1.751 billion, reflecting a notable decrease compared to the robust figures observed in the first half of 2022, which reached an impressive $2.796 billion.

Last week, I penned a column anticipating a mix of positive and negative reactions, and I received just that. If you haven’t perused the responses yet, feel free to do so and drop your thoughts in the comments. That’s where I’ll leave it. One silver lining from the feedback is that our readers can observe […]

As the transition of power to Daniel Noboa has accelerated, altering the political landscape, the imperative to finalize any salary adjustments looms large with the Salary Council facing a deadline of November 30th.

The Chapultepec Index of Press Freedom 2023, presented during the seventy-ninth session of the General Assembly of the Inter-American Society of Press (SIP) in Mexico, reveals concerning trends not only in Ecuador but also in Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Cuba, where there are constant regressions adversely affecting communication rights.

These positions are distributed across ten levels, representing the highest hierarchical levels according to the Organic Law of Public Service (Losep). As with any change in leadership, the new government aims to populate these key roles with individuals aligned with its vision and goals.

Paola Roldán, confined to her bed due Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, initiated legal proceedings challenging the constitutionality of a specific article in the Comprehensive Organic Penal Code (COIP). Her primary objective is to advocate for the decriminalization of euthanasia within the country.

Gabriela Sommerfeld, the businesswoman set to join President-elect Daniel Noboa’s cabinet, voiced her apprehension about the severe situation faced by women in the country. On November 10th, the third edition of the Women Economic Forum (WEF) took place in Quito, focusing on culture and development cooperation. Gabriela Sommerfeld and Isabel Noboa, the aunt of Daniel […]

I’ve deliberately kept this column brief today because the topic, no matter how I phrase it, is bound to draw criticism from both sides. Nevertheless, it’s a topic that demands discussion. I find myself aligning with many Latin American governments in believing that Israel’s actions in its war against Hamas have now gone too far. […]

The latest report from the US Customs agency shows that the number of children abandoned at the border has tripled in one year. Between January and September 2023, a staggering 2,898 migrant children from Ecuador were detained at the US-Mexico border, as reported by the latest release from the US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP). […]

In the year 2023, a grim competition is unfolding between the neighboring Ecuadorian cities of Guayaquil and Durán, as they move toward a spot in the list of the top 10 most violent cities in the world. The violence in these cities has reached staggering levels, with both experiencing an alarming number of violent deaths. […]

Wilder Sánchez, known as ‘Gato Farfán,’ is a prominent Ecuadorian drug trafficker facing extradition to the United States. His story revolves around the intense efforts by U.S. authorities to track his ill-gotten wealth and bring him to justice. In February 2022, U.S. authorities described Wilder Emilio Sánchez, aka ‘Gato Farfán,’ as one of the most […]

As blackouts cost businesses money, consumers and industries could see rate increases. Ecuador has announced a series of measures to address the current energy crisis, which is characterized by low water levels and daily blackouts lasting up to an hour and a half. This situation is the result of various factors, including a flawed statist […]

The specifics of this proposal remain shrouded in mystery, leaving the public and political observers intrigued. While he speaks of a popular consultation, it’s worth noting that some of his ideas could potentially lead to a full-blown constitutional reform, a process that is typically more intricate and protracted. This popular consultation, scheduled to take place […]

Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to be back at our cozy casa in the tranquil Yunguilla valley. Just two weeks in the United States were enough to make both Codie and me yearn for our peaceful life in Ecuador. It’s not that I dislike the US, quite the opposite. I still have a lot of love […]

In a significant development during his European tour, President-elect Noboa confirmed the appointment of Gabriela Sommerfeld as the Foreign Minister and entrusted her with this paramount responsibility. The quest for Schengen visa exemption, a goal that neither Lenín Moreno nor Guillermo Lasso could attain, has become a focal point of Noboa’s administration. On the 24th […]

The Encuentro case, an alleged criminal structure, is believed to have operated within the electricity sector during the administrations of Rafael Correa, Lenín Moreno, and Guillermo Lasso. An intricate web of corruption, a damning reflection of Ecuador’s political landscape, has been in the spotlight since the Prosecutor’s Office carried out the first eight raids targeting […]

A quantitative analysis shows how voting patterns changed from the first to the second round, allowing Noboa to become president. The 2021 and 2023 runoffs were similar. Two years ago, Andrés Arauz and Guillermo Lasso competed for half of the total votes—those that had gone to the other 14 presidential candidates in the first round. In the second round of 2023, Luisa González and Daniel […]

We’ve spent a bit over two weeks here in the US and are eagerly anticipating our return ‘home’ to Ecuador. Our time here has been quite the roller coaster – filled with the joy of reuniting with old friends but also marked by a staggering surge in prices, spanning from fuel and groceries to entertainment. […]

Less than a year after his release from prison, former vice president Jorge Glas finds himself at the center of a new controversy, further deepening divisions within the Citizen Revolution movement. Former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, once a prominent figure in Correismo, now stands as the most uneasy presence among its ranks. His involvement […]

The writing was apparently on the wall in 2022, when it ended the year with losses of $17 million. Thousands of passengers are still waiting for their flights to be rescheduled. The Ecuadorian airline Equair, which commenced operations with a maiden flight between Guayaquil and Quito on December 29, 2021, saw its brief existence come […]

In recent years, Ecuador has grappled with a surge in violence, posing a serious threat to the safety of its citizens. The nation, once considered a bastion of security in the region, witnessed a grim milestone in 2022, as the murder rate skyrocketed from 10.5 to an alarming 25.5 per 100,000 inhabitants. Ecuador’s unsettling surge […]

Having just elected a new President, Ecuador is now faced with the challenge of determining if it can tap into its international reserves to fulfill his campaign commitments. In a recent address on October 13th, Rodrigo Valdés, the director for the Western Hemisphere at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), emphasized the inadvisability of utilizing international […]

Former presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was assassinated hitman style on August 9th, after finishing a political rally in Quito. The assassination of the former presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio on August 9th, executed in a hitman-style manner after concluding a political rally in Quito, prompted a joint investigation between the State Attorney General’s Office and the […]

I am jotting down my thoughts from Denver, Colorado, basking in the glorious autumn breeze while savoring a cup of coffee on my buddy’s backyard deck. Daniel Noboa’s triumph yesterday in Ecuador’s Presidential race yesterday, is bringing me immense joy this morning. My stance on the Correístas is no secret, so my elation over Noboa’s […]

In the third quarter of 2023, Ecuador’s new car sales experienced a significant decline for the third consecutive month. Political uncertainty, heightened insecurity, and escalating insurance costs have collectively impacted the automotive market. According to the Chamber of the Automotive Industry (Cinae), in September 2023, only 10,725 vehicles were sold in Ecuador, marking a stark […]

The construction of Mall del Alto is anticipated to commence in the initial quarter of 2024, shortly following the November unveiling of the Mall del Río expansion. Grupo Ortiz, a prominent player in the retail sector, is set to embark on a significant venture in Cuenca. The company has earmarked a substantial $40 million for […]

Ecuador, the global leader in shrimp exports, finds itself in the throes of an escalating crisis as criminal activities plague the industry. Incidents ranging from daring robberies in breeding pools to armed assaults on vessels at sea have become distressingly common. This surge of violence not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of countless workers but also […]

The Prosecutor’s Office has concluded its investigation into the tragic murder of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, with its last witness’s testimony revealing how much was paid for the assassination and who was behind it. This significant development was announced by the State Attorney General’s Office on the evening of Sunday, October 8, 2023, across its […]

Well, isn’t this a tale of intrigue! I’m talking about that bombshell dropped last night by the Ecuadorian Prosecutor’s office, claiming they’ve wrapped up the investigation into Fernando Villavicencio’s assassination. Their last witness pointed fingers at the Correa government. Timing couldn’t be more dramatic, just a week before the October 15th run-off election. This revelation […]

In 2023, the landscape of credit for businesses has undergone a significant transformation, with notable shifts in interest rates and restrictions. This shift has forced companies to explore alternative avenues for funding, including direct investment and participation in the stock market. One of the most prominent changes in the credit market has been the steady […]

The first half of 2023 has witnessed a remarkable surge in remittances from the United States to Ecuador, registering a substantial 17% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022. The surge in remittances from Ecuadorians living abroad, as reported by the Central Bank of Ecuador, has brought in a total of $1.805 billion between […]

In an effort to fortify the security of Ecuador’s export value chain and safeguard against the perils of drug trafficking, Fedexpor, the Ecuadorian Federation of Exporters, has embarked on a monumental annual investment of $200 million. The Ecuadorian export sector, alarmed by the escalating levels of drug contamination tainting their exportable cargo, recognizes the imperative […]

Cuenca finds itself amid a critical period characterized by a prolonged absence of rainfall. At present, the city has been grappling with a hydrological drought for a staggering 40 days, a duration that significantly complicates its water reserves. This marks one of the lengthiest dry spells witnessed in the past three decades. The longest recorded […]

Today in Yunguilla, we were graced with a taste of Fall, a welcome change after enduring weeks of scorching temperatures hovering in the upper 90s, and some days even breaching the 100-degree mark. You read that correctly. The Yunguilla Valley boasts an array of micro-climates, ranging from lush tropical rainforests to arid desert floors. Our […]

Ecuador and the European Union agree to expand bilateral cooperation and deepen the fight against transnational organized crime.  In a recent bilateral meeting held between Ecuador and the European Union, a pivotal decision was made to further enhance their collaboration in the domain of security. The discussions, which took place during the third roundtable on […]

To defend dollarization, the Economic Forum in Ecuador proposes that is become state policy, through citizen consultation.  Last Friday, two days before Ecuador’s presidential debate, the IX Meeting of the Puebla Group, a prominent political and academic forum featuring representatives from the Latin American and southern European political left, the issue of “de-dollarization worldwide” took […]

Durán, near Guayaquil, has found itself among the ranks of the ten most violent cities in the world, boasting the eighth highest crime rate globally. In Durán, in the Guayas province, there have been a distressing 222 violent deaths recorded this year, equating to a staggering rate of 73.04 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. This unsettling […]

Feminist activists in Ecuador have been tirelessly advocating for improved access to abortion services for survivors of rape. On September 28, 2023, during the Global Day of Action for Legal, Safe, and Accessible Abortion, a wave of green-clad demonstrators descended upon the streets of Ecuador to voice their demands. This diverse coalition, primarily composed of […]

In addition to its insecurity problem, Ecuador is grappling with another deeply troubling and escalating crisis – suicide. The capital city, Quito, finds itself on the front lines of this crisis, with authorities increasingly alarmed by the surge in cases. The global scope of the problem is underscored by the World Health Organization, which has […]

In recent years, Ecuador has witnessed a significant exodus of its citizens, driven by the pursuit of better economic opportunities and the promise of a brighter future in the United States. According to official migration data, a staggering 64,000 Ecuadorians have left the country by land and have not returned, marking a significant demographic shift […]

Kid glove. Kidman. Kidnap. Kidney. Kidney bean. Kidney ore. Kidney punch. Kidney stone. This is little exercise I do in my head when I am feeling the pain from a kidney stone. I play a word association game to get my mind focused on something else. But it always comes back to ‘Kidney stone.’ Those […]

Starting from September 21, 2023, Airbnb hosts in Ecuador are subject to new regulations outlined in the “Regulations for Tourist Accommodation in Room Properties.” These regulations, which were officially published on the same date in the Official Registry of Ecuador, have come into full effect. The essence of these regulations revolves around the concept of […]

Official figures reveal that the tourism industry has experienced remarkable growth, with sales surpassing $3.5 million, representing a 15% increase. These promising projections and statistics were unveiled at the ALTA Aviation Law Americas 2023 conference held last Thursday, September 21st, in Quito, where experts and officials convened to discuss the aviation industry’s resurgence in Ecuador. […]

The Sierra region of Ecuador offers a plethora of hidden treasures, brimming with natural beauty and waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers on vacation. Imbabura, Carchi, Tungurahua, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo are five provinces within this stunning region that harbor these lesser-known gems, where you can immerse yourself in nature, embark on thrilling adventures, explore […]

A surge in the number of Ecuadorians arriving in the US is highlighting the false expectations many arrived with.

The Galapagos Life Fund (GLF), created in Delaware, will manage resources for conservation on the Galapagos islands.

Regardless of which party takes control of Ecuador in 2024, they will face an economic reality that will be extremely difficult to manage.

We’ve got guests in from Europe today (one from Germany and the other a Brit who now lives in Portugal). They’ve been with us for a couple of days and will leave on Thursday or Friday. So, I’m going to keep this short. But I’ll share this with you. Every time we get together with […]

The fighting between Leonidas Iza, the president of Conaie, and Marlon Santi the coordinator of Pachakutik, have turned the once powerful voting block into wallflowers in the upcoming elections and assembly.

In the aftermath of recent elections, the landscape of the National Assembly stands poised for negotiation and collaboration among four political forces. None of these forces have managed to secure an outright majority, setting the stage for a crucial exercise in democratic deliberation. In this unfolding scenario, the Assembly’s inaugural session, scheduled for the end […]

Over the course of little more than a year, Ecuador has witnessed a disturbing rise in political violence, marked by 11 assassinations and 8 armed attacks targeting politicians and prosecutors. These attacks have cast a dark shadow over the nation’s political landscape and have left many Ecuadorians deeply concerned about the safety of their elected […]

Ecuador’s political landscape has been a tumultuous one, marked by a recent political assassination that sent shockwaves through the nation. Yet, amid this chaos, there’s another issue brewing that demands our attention—a call for the removal of Diana Atamaint, the head of the National Election Council (CNE). While the discontent over the electoral system’s flaws […]

On the evening of September 6, 2023, a video began circulating on social media platforms, featuring President Guillermo Lasso of Ecuador expressing his government’s stance on not ending production in ITT block 43. President Lasso has once again changed his position on the results of the Yasuní popular consultation. “We do not want production to […]

Presidential candidate Luisa González made a striking claim during a recent radio interview, asserting that Venezuelan citizens in Ecuador are so dismayed by their experiences that they are returning to Venezuela. According to González, this phenomenon is driven by the perception that living conditions in Venezuela are superior to those in Ecuador. Luisa González, the […]

The investigation into the murder of Fernando Villavicencio, the presidential candidate of the Construye-Gente Buena alliance, has entered its first 30 days with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over it. As the public demands the identification of the intellectual culprits behind the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, questions arise about the failures in presidential security, and […]

Canoa, a coastal town in Ecuador, has become the epicenter of a disturbing international network of child pornography, casting a dark shadow over the community and exposing the negligence of the state. Predatory foreign individuals targeted low-income families with children aged 8 to 12 years old, exploiting their vulnerabilities. In 2021, Canoa witnessed the emergence […]

Sometimes, we become so engrossed in the big issues that it takes minor issues to jolt us back to reality and make us think about the things that truly matter to us. Codie and I have been deeply immersed in the entire election process here in Ecuador for the past few weeks, starting even before […]

The Panama Canal, a marvel of modern engineering that has facilitated global trade for over a century, is currently grappling with an unprecedented maritime logjam.

The recent development concerning Claro’s contract extension signals a positive stride as the government greenlights the continuation of concession payments.

One expert claims that González’s plan to take money out of the international reserve comes from “ignorance and demagogy.” 

‘Quito Sin Minería’ are set to petition the Constitutional Court for a clarification concerning the ongoing operations of small-scale mining within the area.

Based on information provided by the National Police, the initial six months of 2023 saw homicides in 138 out of the 221 towns in the country.

Dare I use that word? Last week, I laid out my concerns about the pressing issues gripping this nation, coupled with the unsettling prospect of a Correismo resurgence. The triumph of González seemed inevitable, especially in the wake of Fernando Villavicencio’s tragic assassination. Yet, as if from the shadows, Daniel Noboa emerged, carving a path […]

Across a span of five days, a disconcerting sequence of events unfolded in Cuenca, marked by the tragic loss of three citizens from knife-related violence.

The Ecuadorian government’s response to a complaint surrounding the murder of Fernando Villavicencio, a prominent presidential candidate for the Construye movement, has garnered considerable attention.

The high rates of violence and insecurity in Ecuador have caused a boom in the security industry, which offers bulletproof clothing and armoring for vehicles.

In the middle of June 2023, InSight Crime, a platform specializing in investigating organized crime and public safety issues in Latin America, pinpointed the focal points of lethal incidents across the region.

Following the tragic assassination of Fernando Villavicencio, the designated candidate of Alianza Construye, Christian Zurita, encountered a series of legal and procedural obstacles that hindered his involvement in the crucial “mandatory” Presidential Debate, raising concerns about his eligibility for the presidency. In the aftermath of Fernando Villavicencio’s untimely demise on August 9th, uncertainties and gaps […]

Colombian media claim that Ecuador politicians spoke to Villavicencio’s assassins, but Ecuador refuses to confirm the report. The cell phones of the individuals responsible for the murder of Fernando Villavicencio are believed to have contained records of calls made to Ecuadorian politicians, establishing potential connections between the accused assassins and political figures. This revelation, confirmed […]

The recent presidential debate held on Sunday, August 13, 2023, lasting just under three hours, offered a glimpse into Ecuador’s political landscape. Seven candidates took the stage at Ecuador TV facilities: Jan Topic, Bolívar Armijos, Luisa González, Otto Sonnenholzner, Yaku Pérez, Xavier Hervas, and Daniel Noboa. The event, organized by the National Electoral Council (CNE) […]

Former Vice President Jorge Glas has unveiled plans to initiate a legal process aimed at overturning his conviction in the bribery case. On August 12th, Jorge Glas, who served as Vice President under former President Rafael Correa (2007-2017), announced his intention to chart a legal “road map” to reverse his conviction for illicit association linked […]

The action comes after the assassination prominent mining businessman Ángel Gaona Castillo. A significant cache of ammunition and explosives was successfully seized during a joint operation conducted by the Armed Forces in collaboration with the National Police, aimed at curbing illegal mining activities in the Cerro Negro region of the Pucará canton, located within the […]

In my usual style, I often infuse sarcasm into my columns, but the present circumstances are far too grave for such tonal liberties. The recent assassination of Presidential Candidate Fernando Villavicencio has cast a long shadow over Ecuador, and its implications demand serious attention. This incident highlights a disheartening reality: corruption has deeply permeated the […]

Wow, the Constitutional Court has done it again – shutting down President Lasso’s decree to change the environmental consultations requirement for oil drilling. That’s three out of four rejections they’ve handed him, all while claiming, “No way Bill, this has nothing to do with economic urgency.” Really? Are they missing the obvious here? Let’s face […]

Former Vice President Jorge Glas, who is currently on provisional release, has taken a bold step to seek a further reduction in his sentences for corruption charges. The appeal was officially filed on July 5, 2023, where Glas invoked Article 230 of the Organic Code of the Judiciary (COFJ) to request a sentence reduction. Article […]

By Antonio José Paz Cardona on August 3, 2023 A new investigation, which compiles data provided by citizen science and the results of scientific studies, reveals that birds (1,428 cases), reptiles (1,356), mammals (1,326) and amphibians (895) were the most affected by road kills on Ecuadorian roads. Scientists say more attention needs to be paid […]

With young laborers flocking to the cities or the US, elderly are left to farm and carry the debts.

The Ecuadorian government is grappling with mounting financial challenges as it closes July 2023 with a staggering $1.5 billion in arrears, a burden that the incoming administration will have to face.

Thousands of Ecuadorians, among migrants from other countries, continue to embark on a perilous journey through Honduras in an attempt to reach the United States. International organizations have raised concerns over the “multiple risks” these migrants face, often falling victim to human traffickers known as “coyotes.”

As I sit here in Yunguilla, flipping through this week’s stories in The Cuenca Dispatch, I can’t help but feel a sense of concern. Crime, drug-gang wars, prison riots, and Ecuadorians fleeing their own country have become recurring headlines. The once quaint little nation I first visited in 2006, and later moved to in 2014, […]

An increasing number of Ecuadorians are choosing the Bahamas route in a desperate bid to reach the United States. However, for 15 young Ecuadorians, this journey turned into a nightmarish ordeal as they now face drug charges in the Bahamas. During mid-June 2023, 15 young people departed from various cantons in Azuay, Cañar, and Morona […]

While both nations are committed to working together to stop crime on their borders, Ecuador’s military may have overstepped its bounds in recent anti-drug operation. In an effort to enhance cooperation and combat transnational crime along their shared border, Colombia and Ecuador signed an ‘Operational Security Plan.’ The comprehensive agreement aims to tackle drug trafficking, […]

The Constitutional Court (CC) has once again turned down the legal proposals put forth by President Guillermo Lasso following the dissolution of the National Assembly. On Friday, July 28th, the Constitutional Court issued unfavorable opinions concerning two draft decree-laws claiming economic urgency. One of these proposals aimed to provide support for educational loans currently undergoing […]

Drug gangs in Esmeraldas flaunted their ability to take control of the city, while authorities remained in the dark about what was happening. For four hours, the city of Esmeraldas, capital of the province of the same name, descended into chaos and terror on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, as a joint task force, responsible for […]

After five attempts to take seize control of the country’s prison from drug gangs, the Lasso government continues to make little headway in restoring order. Since taking office on May 24, 2021, President Guillermo Lasso has faced a daunting challenge in dealing with the escalating crisis in the country’s prisons. With rampant violence and numerous […]

Daylight attack leaves Manta mayor Agustín Intriago and local athlete Ariana Chancay Morales dead. Police have apprehended one suspect and are investigating crime-scene leads and prior threats made on Mayor’s life. A shocking incident unfolded in the 15 de Septiembre neighborhood of Manta on Sunday, July 23, 2023, as the mayor of the city, Agustín […]

Seeking a better life in the United States, migrants end up losing their properties and decimating their communities. In the region of Tungurahua, an alarming trend has emerged where traffickers and usurers prey on vulnerable migrants who seek a better life in the United States. These unscrupulous individuals take advantage of their clients’ desperate situations, […]

The interest of Hong Kong buyers led to a surge in the export of black clams, surpassing the export of crab. While the United States remained the top buyer of Ecuadorian crab, accounting for more than 97% of its exports, Hong Kong emerged as a significant market for the country’s emblematic black clam. In 2022, […]

As I sit by the pool sweltering in the heat today in Yunguilla, I think back to a column I wrote about five years ago on climate change that stirred up a maelstrom of both positive and negative reactions (“Is it hot in here or is it just me?” Vol.2, Issue 46, June 10, 2018). […]

Agreement reached with the US offers information sharing and training, but no funding. After an extensive year of negotiations, Ecuador and the United States finally signed a security agreement aimed at combatting drug trafficking in Ecuador. The agreement, known as the Comprehensive Strategy for Security and Peace, was proposed by the government of Guillermo Lasso […]

Panamanian authorities have revealed that the number of migrants passing through the Darién jungle is on track to break last year’s record. In 2022, a historic figure of 248,000 irregular migrants made the dangerous crossing thru the Darién jungle, but this year the numbers are already approaching 230,000 by July. The Security Minister of Panama, […]

A lack of income has resulted in a slowdown of important works in recent years, prompting the company to seek $20 million for intervention in a water treatment plant.

I’m very tired today. Because for the last three nights, there has been a cricket in our house who has decided that chirping (or in fact rubbing his wings together to make a sound like a chirp) is best done between the hours of midnight and 6 AM. And because we have cathedral ceilings, that […]

The Manta-Colisa Highway, despite remaining undamaged during the devastating 2016 earthquake, was approved for construction using emergency funds by the Reconstruction Committee, chaired by then Vice President Jorge Glas.

In Ecuador, the number of violent deaths has surged by 74% during the first half of 2023, but only one-fifth of victims had criminal records.

As the country leaves pandemic and supply-chain issues behind, Chinese car companies are losing market share to locally assembled vehicles.

Ten years after the creation of the collective, Ecuadorians will vote whether to leave the oil underground in Block 43. The decade-long activism of Yasunidos, a collective advocating for a popular consultation, has reached its culmination. On August 20, 2023, Ecuadorians will have the opportunity to determine the fate of the oil reserves located in […]

If you read all of this week’s articles like I did, you’ll probably see the connections between almost all of them (with the exception of the Hidden Gems). There are two stories on the Yasuní popular consultation, one that explains how long it took to get to it and the other how bad it will […]

An increase in detentions, expulsions and deportations is expected this year. Even though the existing routes present more risks, travelers dare to face them in search of reaching the United States. The increase in irregular migration poses significant risks for those attempting to reach the United States. Despite the dangers associated with existing routes, many travelers […]

Claiming no candidate brought forth solutions to the country’s problems, Conaie tells their members to make their own choice. The expanded council of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Conaie) has made a significant announcement regarding its stance on the upcoming presidential elections. In a session held on July 3, 2023, representatives from Ecuarunari, […]

Oil palm and balsa crops trigger deforestation in the northern Ecuadorian Amazon by Ana Cristina Alvarado on July 5, 2023 Highways for the oil industry have facilitated logging for decades. Recent deforestation alerts show that this problem is still in force. In Vía Auca, one of the most deforested areas in the country, peasants are turning to planting […]

Seven out of the eight presidential candidates vying for the upcoming elections in the Republic are set to face scrutiny over their tax payments. The Internal Revenue Service (SRI) has scheduled appointments with these candidates as part of their tax payment control process. Francisco Briones, the director of the SRI, revealed that seven candidates have […]

Strong investments promote the construction of residential projects in Cuenca, but the sector is concerned that demand will not grow at the same rate.  The construction sector in Cuenca is experiencing a boost in residential projects, driven by strong investments. However, there are concerns that demand may not keep up with the rapid growth. After […]

Ecuadorians who aspire to migrate to the United States have four main legal pathways available to them. Many don’t need to risk their lives in dangerous desert crossings with ‘coyotes.” According to a recent survey conducted by the Interdisciplinary Development Consulting (CID Gallup), 47% of Ecuadorians expressed their desire to migrate to the United States […]

Three Zone 8 cities account for over 1,200 murders in first three months of 2023. During the first quarter of 2023, the cities of Guayaquil, Durán, and Samborondón in Zone 8 of Ecuador experienced a disturbing surge in violent deaths, with a staggering total of 1,255 murders. This marked an alarming increase of nearly 100% […]

In case you haven’t figured it out, when I write about something that is going to be in the current issue of The Cuenca Dispatch, it’s because I get an advanced copy each week so that I can see if anything in it raises the hackles on my neck. And so…let’s talk crime. Wow, how […]

The Galapagos Islands are facing a severe crisis that has led to skyrocketing food prices and a surge in corruption. The breakdown of one of the two supply ships that cater to the archipelago has caused the prices of eggs, rice, potatoes, onions, and certain fruits to climb sharply. The Isla de la Plata supply […]

Three-month search across 24 hectares and 3 million cubic meters of dirt yielded remains of 65 victims. Cost to prevent future slides likely to exceed $18 million. The Municipality of Alausí in Ecuador is faced with the daunting task of stabilizing a hill that caused a tragic event resulting in the burial of numerous families […]

Recent survey of businesses suggests that crime is increasing in Cuenca and forcing businesses to take matters into their own hands. The commercial areas of Cuenca are facing a growing problem of crime, according to a survey conducted by the Cuenca Chamber of Commerce. The survey reveals that 26% of commercial establishments have fallen victim […]

A little more than half of the way to Cuenca from our home in the Yunguilla valley, there is a place I drive by that makes vinyl windows, gutters and assorted plastic materials like sewer pipes etc. It must use some kind of epoxy mixture in its processes, because when the factory is working—it doesn’t […]

This week’s “historic” meeting on defense lead to a memorandum of understanding between Ecuador and the United States. Representatives of Ecuador and the United States met recently to address defense and security issues and to establish a roadmap for cooperation between the two countries. The meeting took place on June 22nd at the Carondelet Palace […]

The plight of hundreds of Ecuadorian fishermen imprisoned abroad has brought forth a troubling narrative. Nearly 300 fishermen from the Jaramijó canton of Manabí are detained for their involvement in drug trafficking activities, incarcerated in prisons across Central and North America. Not shockingly, these fishermen are enticed by drug-criminal organizations offering thousands of dollars for […]

The Minister of Transportation, César Rohón, acknowledged that there is limited execution of road work in the area but claims that the problems stem from both a lack of resources and zonal mismanagement. The Ministry of Transport and Public Works claims it intends to prioritize maintenance on the most deteriorated roads in Azuay to prevent […]

Girón beckons adventurous travelers with its natural wonders and enticing attractions. This canton boasts crystal clear lagoons, majestic mountains, and an expansive valley, offering a diverse range of experiences for those eager to explore its bountiful offerings. Whether embarking on a bus or driving in a private vehicle, the journey to Girón is a scenic […]

Crime has taken a sadistic turn in Ecuador, where kidnappers now regularly amputate the fingers of their victims and send images of their maiming to pressure relatives to pay higher ransoms. For decades, Ecuador was a refuge of peace wedged in a dangerous region. But these days, it increasingly resembles nearby Peru and Colombia, two […]

Guillermo Lasso, the current president of Ecuador, has stated that he will not bid farewell to politics once his term ends in the coming months. Instead, he plans to continue his involvement in politics by becoming a “serious opposition” figure. During an interview with the NTN24 network, President Lasso denied allegations of corruption involving his […]

The Municipality of Cuenca has initiated a process of terminating contracts and dismissing casual workers who were recently hired, as well as those providing services under invoice, some of whom charge fees of up to $3,000 per month. Under the direction of new Cuenca Mayor Cristian Zamora, personnel contracts are being meticulously examined, resulting in […]

Roads, roads, roads. Promises, promises, promises. That’s the never-ending tune we hear here in Azuay. We’re constantly bombarded with assurances that the roads will finally receive the attention they deserve. But alas, it’s been six long years of disappointment, and the journey from Guayaquil, Quito, or Machala to Cuenca remains an exercise in pure frustration. […]

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has called for the establishment of both a BRICs and a South American currency—to counter the dominance of the US dollar. Lula made this plea for a new South American currency during an April speech at the New Development Bank in Shanghai, where he questioned why countries have […]

Authorities in Azuay consistently discover narcotic substances during security operations. Recently, the delivery of small drug doses by delivery men has become increasingly common, with social media platforms are also being exploited for drug transactions. The drugs most prevalent in Cuenca are marijuana, cocaine base paste, cocaine hydrochloride, heroin, and synthetic drugs, with synthetic drugs […]

The Government of Ecuador has categorically denied ceding sovereignty over the Galapagos Islands amidst criticism and speculation surrounding a recent debt swap. In a statement issued on June 10, 2023, President Guillermo Lasso’s administration clarified that the country recent conservation debt swap does not, under any circumstances, result in a loss of sovereignty over the […]

So, let me get this straight, the Correístas REALLY nominated Jorge Glas as their presidential candidate? Really? Okay, yes, he refused the nomination, basically saying, “Hey, let’s be serious, I’m under so many investigations I’m making Trump look honest.” Nonetheless, do the Correístas really have that little respect for the people of Ecuador? Look, just […]

Ecuador has been facing a legal crisis due to numerous controversial rulings in constitutional actions that have targeted judges and the judicial system. The cases related to habeas corpus, precautionary measures, and protection actions in Ecuador have increased by 211% between 2018 and 2020, according to the Council of the Judiciary. These constitutional actions serve […]

Two new criminal investigations against former Vice President Jorge Glas could reverse his provisional freedom and pre-release. On May 30th, a Pichincha Criminal Guarantees judge confirmed to Glas that he had two years, eleven months and fifteen days left to complete his single sentence of eight years in prison, which was defined last January. The […]

The company announced an investment of more than $140 million for the construction of a new plant in Brazil, with construction set to begin in one month. Electrolux, a leading household appliance manufacturer, is set to enhance its presence in the Ecuadorian market by doubling its imports of appliances from Brazil. This expansion comes as […]

Time and hope is running out in the search for victims of the March 26th landslide that has claimed already 61 lives. The families of the 14 people still missing in the Alausí landslide are relying on the efforts of 90 firefighters and soldiers who continue to work diligently on the site, despite the approaching […]

Well, you’ve gone and done it now. President Guillermo Lasso has confirmed that he won’t run again in this special upcoming election. Can you say, “shot yourself in the foot?” I mean, let’s review what this guy pulled off in 2 years. He contained a pandemic that was ravaging this country by rapidly getting 90% […]

Guayas prosecutor involved in murder trial is assassinated in Durán, adding to a growing list of slain members of the judiciary. In a tragic series of events, Ecuador has witnessed the targeted killings of judges and prosecutors in 2022 and 2023. The latest victim was prosecutor Leonardo Palacios, who was assassinated on the night of […]

A crucial agreement reached among the political parties is their commitment to avoid impeding the process with legal disputes. The National Electoral Council (CNE) and 17 national-level political organizations reached a unanimous decision on Tuesday to revise the schedule for defining candidacies in the upcoming presidential and legislative elections. The adjustment aims to provide political […]

The pace of foreign tourist arrivals to Ecuador is slowing down due to insecurity and political instability, leading to cancellations of tourist packages for the remainder of the year. While the country’s receptive tourism (i.e., entry of foreign tourists) had been steadily recovering since 2022, recent challenges have hindered its growth. According to the Ministry […]

The President presented his second report to the nation on May 24th at the Social Platform building, south of the capital.  For the first time in Ecuador’s history, a President of the Republic did not present his annual state of the nation speech in front of the National Assembly. President Guillermo Lasso instead delivered his […]

I figured out what Lasso did wrong. He waited too long to tell everyone what he has done. He should have given a weekly radio address on the same frequency that Correa uses in exile. I just read the full text of his recent “State of the Nation” speech, and I must admit that even […]