Ecuador's violence surge prompts states of exception and anti‑mafia law push

Ecuador is grappling with a sharp rise in violent crime, recording 9,216 intentional homicides in 2025 – a rate of 50.9 per 100,000 residents, one of the highest in recent history. Early 2026 data show a slight decline, but the climate of fear persists, with kidnappings, extortion and armed guards becoming routine and prompting many families to consider migration.

President Daniel Noboa’s government has responded with a series of security measures. On 16 June, a 15th state of exception was declared across ten provinces, and two days later the administration formally recognized an internal armed conflict, granting broad immunity to allied military forces. Following a Pentagon visit, Ecuador is seeking U.S. support for a “total war” against transnational criminal organizations. In parallel, the National Assembly is debating an anti‑mafia bill, a project that has drawn input from the United States and Italy and references the historic influence of the Italian Cosa Nostra on organized crime.

These actions aim to curb the homicide rate, dismantle criminal networks and restore public confidence, but critics warn that continued militarization and emergency powers may deepen insecurity.