In this conversation, we dive into the 2025 presidential elections in Ecuador, a country that was once the envy of Latin America for its stability and safety. On February 9, voters went to the polls, and now, incumbent Daniel Noboa and challenger Luisa González are headed for a crucial second-round vote in April.
But this election is taking place amid a severe security crisis. Formerly known for its low homicide rates and booming economy, Ecuador is grappling with surging violence and organized crime. How did a country so stable slip into chaos, and how are the candidates addressing these issues?
In this episode, we speak with Steven Dudley, co-director of InSight Crime, who helps us unpack the security challenges Ecuador faces and how these issues are shaping the election. From escalating violence to the candidates’ proposals on crime and safety, we explore what’s at stake for Ecuador’s future.
Listen to all of our Narrated Stories and explore more audio content here.
Explore Our Coverage on Ecuador
The InSight Take: Inside Ecuador’s Chone Killers, the Latest Addition to US Terrorism List
The US State Department has added the Chone Killers gang in Ecuador to its list of foreign terrorist designations, but…
Choneros’ Extraditions to US Will Test Ecuador’s Kingpin Strategy
The extraditions to the United States of key members of the Choneros is a litmus test for Ecuador’s kingpin strategy…
José Adolfo Macías Villamar, alias “Fito”
José Adolfo Macías Villamar, alias “Fito,” was the head of the Choneros, one of Ecuador’s most prominent criminal groups. He…
On the Radar: Criminal Shake-Ups in Ecuador and Venezuela as Colombia Votes on Security
The capture of alias Fito’s brother in Ecuador could weaken Los Choneros’ financial network. This week’s On the Radar also…
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
