UNHCR Ecuador: Operational Update N.6 | June 2025

Operational context

In June, Ecuador made important changes on the legal and policy front affecting forcibly displaced communities. The National Solidarity Law entered into force, establishing a legal framework for State action amid internal armed conflict—it mandates protection of civilians, repeats respect for International Humanitarian Law, and clarifies Executive obligations toward vulnerable populations.

Under the National Solidarity Law, Ecuador has established a new mandatory transit visa for citizens of visa-requiring countries (including Venezuela). Published after a delayed implementation, the regulations require applications to be submitted at least 20 days in advance. The visa permits a single transit within 30 days, with return transit allowed under justified circumstances. These new requirements may pose additional barriers for forcibly displaced people, particularly Venezuelan citizens, who may be unable to meet the formal criteria and instead rely on informal crossings. This increases their exposure to risks, especially for women and children. UNHCR continues to monitor the situation.

Violence remains volatile across the country, although it has intensified in recent weeks. Recently, several illegal mining camps have been dismantled by the Armed Forces, triggering violent incidents, particularly in areas such as Esmeraldas and Buenos Aires (in Imbabura province) in the north of the country. The capture of Adolfo Macías, known as ‘Fito’, has also sparked violent events in Manabí province, including massacres. Latest military and police operations have revealed links between organized criminal groups and municipal officials in cities like Manta and Durán. In the latter—one of the most violent cities in the country—the police intervened at the Municipal Transit Agency.

As part of World Refugee Day 2025, UNHCR organized a series of commemorative events across the country to promote inclusion, solidarity, and resilience among forcibly displaced people. In this context, UNHCR presented the 2025 National Trends on Forced Displacement, which revealed key findings: increased regional mobility, changing protection needs at transit points, and new challenges for community integration. In this regard, UNHCR visited several media outlets and shared more detailed information, including figures and the humanitarian response.

However, UNHCR’s ability to sustain protection services, improve reception conditions, and respond to emerging needs remains severely constrained by funding shortages. Continued international support is critical to ensure lifesaving assistance reaches the most vulnerable.