As Ecuador gears up for a pivotal run-off election on April 13, 2025, Amnesty International has urged the presidential candidates to make pressing human rights issues a priority in their potential administrations. This plea from the human rights organization came via an open letter released on Friday. The letter was published in anticipation of the decisive electoral contest between current President Daniel Noboa and his opponent, Luisa González, following a tied result in the election held on February 9.
During President Noboa’s tenure, there have been numerous allegations of human rights violations, including widespread arrests, extrajudicial killings, and even forced disappearances. In May 2024, President Noboa declared a new state of emergency amidst escalating gang violence, which the Constitutional Court later found unconstitutional. The concerns over rule of law and human rights in Ecuador during Noboa’s presidency are well-documented.
In its letter, Amnesty International highlighted these ongoing concerns, questioning how the candidates plan to ensure that security policies comply with human rights standards in the face of allegations of military-related extrajudicial executions. It also inquired about what measures will be taken to address crises within the prison system, particularly in response to reported acts of torture.
Amnesty International’s letter follows similar warnings from other human rights organizations. In May 2024, Human Rights Watch voiced its concern over an “internal armed conflict” declaration by Noboa, citing it opened the door to potential further abuses. A separate incident in December 2024 involving the forced disappearance and alleged killing of four young boys has also drawn international scrutiny.
The upcoming presidential debate between Noboa and González on March 23 will provide a platform for both candidates to address these issues. As the run-off election approaches, the international community and human rights organizations continue to closely monitor the candidates’ stances and proposed policies concerning Ecuador’s human rights landscape.
Further coverage of Amnesty International’s appeal to Ecuador’s presidential hopefuls can be found on JURIST.