The government of Ecuador has declared a state of emergency in 10 provinces and three specific municipalities, citing severe internal instability and ongoing security challenges.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the decree signed by President Daniel Noboa establishes this special regime for a period of 60 days.
The official document states that the state of emergency grants security forces expanded authority to restore internal stability, maintain public order, and ensure the safety of citizens. This measure is specifically aimed at the following objectives:
- Combating criminal groups that threaten the rights and freedoms of the public;
- Preventing illicit activities;
- Strengthening control in affected regions.
Furthermore, the decree temporarily restricts the right to the inviolability of the home. This allows law enforcement agencies to enter private residences and other properties suspected of harboring criminal activity without a court order.
It should be noted that President Noboa has been compelled to declare a state of emergency three times during his tenure due to escalating violence. According to statistics from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Internal Affairs, 2025 marked the highest crime rate in the country's history, with approximately 9,300 homicides recorded throughout the year. These figures have placed Ecuador among the most dangerous countries in Latin America in terms of crime rates, highlighting the significant security crisis currently facing the nation.
