Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

Ecuador + 2 more

UNHCR Ecuador: Operational Update N.11 (November 2024)

Attachments

Operational Context

In November 2024, Ecuador continued to bear witness to forced displacements to and through the country, particularly in regions along the northern border and urban centers. Ongoing violence in neighboring Colombia continues to increase the number of asylum seekers from that country in Ecuador. According to Government figures, nearly 6,500 Colombians had sought asylum by the end of the month – the highest number since 2014. By the end of November 2024, out of the 3,263 individuals registered by UNHCR and partners, 22% corresponds to Colombians (already more than the 21.2% registered in the entire 2023).

This increase in asylum claims takes place amid the continuous displacement of Venezuelans with estimated 684 daily entries and 685 exits in the month of November. These numbers are now comparable to those registered prior to the elections in Venezuela, and a reflection of the ongoing downward trend of Venezuelan movements to the country since last year.

Cuenca, Ecuador, a key place of integration for people forced to flee, experienced significant forest fires, particularly in the Cajas National Park. These fires were part of a larger crisis that has been affecting several provinces in Ecuador, exacerbated by drought. The government declared a 60-day national emergency to address the situation, which included 17 active wildfires and another five that had been controlled. In the provinces of Azuay and Loja, more than 10,000 hectares were consumed by the flames.

Compounding these issues, in November 2024, Ecuador faced significant security challenges. The government declared a 60-day state of emergency to combat escalating violence and criminal activities, particularly in urban areas like Guayaquil. The combination of increased violence, the continued influx of refugees, and climate-related challenges underscores the need for ongoing international support and cooperation to ensure the safety and dignity of all populations including refugees.

In this context, UNHCR continued to work around the clock to provide protection and facilitate assistance and solutions to thousands of people affected by forced displacement, with the support of its donors. Notably, UNHCR received new contributions in November from donors like Japan and the Republic of Korea to support people affected by violence and displacement, including gender-based violence survivors and youth.