Ecuador: Protests, related disruptions likely to continue across country through at least late June; curfew implemented in Quito /update 4

Event

Officials declared a state of exception in the provinces of Pichincha, Imbabura and Cotopaxi and declared an overnight 22:00-05:00 curfew in the Metropolitan District of Quito late June 17. The orders will run for 30 days.

The measures coincide with and are in response to ongoing protest action. These demonstrations are likely to continue across Ecuador through at least late June, causing significant disruptions to overland travel, as multiple organizations, led by the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Confederacion de Nacionalidades Indigenas de Ecuador, CONAIE), protest various issues, including the cost of living and the government's health and oil policies.

Roadblocks were reported in at least five provinces in central Ecuador (i.e., Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Bolivar, and Pastaza), including along intercity thoroughfares connecting Cuenca and Loja, Giron and Pasaje, and Naranjito and Bucay, June 17. CONAIE has threatened to escalate protests in Quito June 18-19. Quito has recently reported demonstrations, with protesters blocking major roads, including in the Historic Center. Notably, related traffic disruptions have affected Avenida Simon Bolivar and Avenida Maldonado, as well as highways to the north and south of the city, especially the Pan American Highway.

Demonstrations remain likely over the coming days at various government buildings, public squares, universities, and sites associated with the oil and mining industries. Protests along roads leading to Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO) and intercity highways in central and southern Ecuador may cause significant transport disruptions. Related business disruptions are also possible.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased security to protest-affected areas. Clashes between activists and police remain possible, especially if protesters are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse. Officials could expand current movement restrictions in response to developments.

Context

The series of nationwide demonstrations in Ecuador began June 13, 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. Activists called for an intensification of protest activity following the arrest of Leonidas Iza, president of CONAIE, June 14. While Iza was released June 15, protesters have reaffirmed their intent to continue nationwide anti-government protests until their demands are met.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. Do not attempt to drive through any roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them before proceeding. Heed all instructions from authorities. Plan accordingly for localized transport and business disruptions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Heed the curfew order. Persons in Quito traveling to or from the airport during the curfew should ensure they travel with their passport and flight booking or boarding pass.