Ecuador: Activists to protest in Quito Oct. 26; associated demonstrations also likely in other urban centers

Event

Activist groups, including the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Confederacion de Nacionalidades Indigenas del Ecuador, CONAIE), have called for an anti-government protest in Quito, Oct. 26. Participants plan to gather outside the Ecuadorian Institute of Social Security (IESS), located opposite El Ejido Park on Avenida 10 de Agosto, from 16:00. Protesters will gather in opposition of rising fuel prices and to make several other demands.

While the times and locations for protests outside of the capital have not been confirmed, social media reports suggest that activists also plan to gather at Guayaquil's Parque Centenario from 16:00 and other urban centers nationwide Oct. 26. The call for demonstrations comes as multiple anti-government protests have been taking place in the country in recent weeks.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the protest and secure government buildings. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if police attempt to disperse those who block roads or breach security cordons near government buildings. Clashes between opposing groups also cannot be ruled out if counter-protests take place.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Heed instructions from authorities. Plan accordingly for ground freight delivery delays and supply chain disruptions. Consider alternative shipping methods for critical cargo until the protest ends and freight traffic returns to normal levels.