Ecuadorian groups call for mobilization to defend water and paramos

Social organizations and indigenous groups in Ecuador have called for a mass mobilization known as ‘El Quinto Río’ (The Fifth River) to defend water resources and paramos against mining expansion. The protest, scheduled for September 16, follows local decisions in Cuenca and Girón to reject extractive activities.

Leonidas Iza, president of Ecuarunari, warned that mining projects could impact approximately 220,000 cubic meters of water. Activists argue that the government is facilitating extractivism through legal mechanisms that bypass popular will, such as the Organic Law for the Strengthening of Strategic Mining and Energy Sectors. This law is criticized for potentially eliminating prior consultation rights for indigenous communities and increasing military presence in resource-rich territories.

The Frente Nacional Antiminero has announced legal actions against recent legislation, citing concerns over the reopening of the mining registry and the expansion of concessions, which currently cover approximately 1.8 million hectares.