Ecuador: Nationwide protests likely to continue through at least late June /update 2

Event

Nationwide anti-government demonstrations in Ecuador will likely continue through late June despite the release of one of the leaders of the protest movement June 15. Activists had called for the protests to intensify following the arrest Leonidas Iza, president of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Confederacion de Nacionalidades Indigenas del Ecuador, CONAIE), June 14. While Iza was released June 15, protesters have reaffirmed their intention to continue nationwide anti-government protests until their demands are met.

In the evening of June 15, protesters clashed with security forces in Quito, where a police vehicle was set on fire and several people were injured near Estacion Limoncocha. Groups of protesters in the capital have mainly gathered across Quito's Historic Center, especially at Plaza de Santo Domingo. Additionally, protester roadblocks have been reported in several locations across Ecuador in recent days, including along inter-city thoroughfares connecting Cusubamba and Cayambe, Guayllabamba and Calderon, and Tabacundo and Cajas. As of late June 15, severe traffic disruptions were reported on the main roads to the north and south of Quito, making overland travel in and out of the city difficult.

Demonstrations are likely at various government buildings, public squares, universities, and sites associated with oil and mining industries. Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased security in the vicinity of any protests that may materialize. Transit disruptions are likely. Further clashes between activists and police remain possible, especially if protesters are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

The series of nationwide demonstrations in Ecuador began June 13 and is led by a coalition of organizations, including CONAIE, farmers' groups, and labor unions. These groups launched the protest campaign to denounce the policies of President Guillermo Lasso, voicing concerns over various issues such as the cost of living, health policies, oil and mining activity, and the well-being of indigenous peoples.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Do not attempt to circumvent any roadblocks; wait for police to dismantle them before proceeding. Heed all instructions from authorities. Plan accordingly for localized transport and business disruptions.