Ecuador: Indigenous leaders call off protests following deal with government October 13 /update 14

Event

President Lenin Moreno reached a deal with indigenous leaders in the late hours (local time) on Sunday, October 13, to replace the decree slashing fuel subsidies with one that directs resources to the more vulnerable groups. Both sides have agreed to work together to draft the new law, however, it is not clear as of 01:00 on Monday, October 14, when it will come into effect. Indigenous leaders have consequently called off protests, and asked its supporters to take to the streets on Monday to begin a clean-up effort. Disruptive and widespread celebrations are ongoing in Quito, and may continue into Monday.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are still likely in Quito and in other major urban centers across the country in the coming days. Further protests cannot be ruled out until the government implements the new agreement.  

Context

Several civil society groups and unions began protesting and striking on October 3 in response to President Moreno's announcement on October 1 that the government would eliminate nearly USD 1.3 billion in fuel subsidies to reduce the country's fiscal deficit. Prices of gasoline and diesel fuel are expected to increase significantly as a result of the measure, which came into effect on October 3. The Ecuadorian government has declared a two-month state of emergency and deployed military and police forces to reopen roads and restore order in protest-affected areas. President Moreno moved his government from Quito to Guayaquil following violent protests that vandalized the assembly building in the capital on October 7.

Advice

Individuals in Quito and across Ecuador are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence and associated disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.