Polish anti-corruption activist Monika Silva Koniuszek found dead in Ecuador

Monika Silva Koniuszek, a 41‑year‑old Polish activist, was discovered dead in her home in Montanita, Santa Elena province, western Ecuador, on June 9 2026.

She had become known for publicizing alleged corruption, illegal land deals and environmental violations, and had received threats for her activism. Silva founded the La Integridad foundation, organized humanitarian aid during the pandemic, and regularly used social media to denounce wrongdoing.

Ecuadorian officials, including Interior Minister John Reimberg, opened a criminal investigation and, based on a ligature mark and statements from her partner that she suffered depression, said suicide appeared most probable. An autopsy is pending.

Friends, family and local activists dispute the suicide theory, calling for an independent, transparent inquiry. The European Union delegation in Ecuador issued a statement urging a swift, impartial investigation and reaffirming the need to protect human‑rights defenders and journalists.