Ecuador — humanitarian situation

Ecuador's operational environment remains shaped by escalating drug-related violence, particularly in coastal provinces, alongside complex mixed migration dynamics and persistent socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Violence driven by organized crime groups has intensified, making Ecuador one of the most insecure countries in the region WFP. In El Oro province, homicides increased by 71% in the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, as criminal groups enforce territorial control through mobilization of children and adolescents, extortion, and targeted violence ACAPS. Nationally, poverty affects 21.4 percent of the population, with extreme poverty at 8.3 percent WFP. The country experiences complex migration flows, with continued influx of refugees and asylum seekers alongside increased emigration due to deteriorating security conditions WFP. UNHCR works closely with national and local authorities to support refugees, asylum seekers, and persons in need of international protection amid security, socioeconomic, and community-level challenges affecting access to services and inclusion opportunities UNHCR. Migration monitoring at Ecuador's borders in June 2026 showed variations in flows associated with operational conditions, security controls, and climatic factors, with Tulcán observing recovery in migratory movement compared to the previous month, while Lago Agrio experienced increased border control affecting mobility dynamics IOM. Internal displacement has been documented, including forced displacement of families in Guayaquil's Socio Vivienda community UNHCR. Public health concerns include regional measles transmission and dengue surveillance, with PAHO urging Member States to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and vaccination activities given increased measles cases during 2026 and mass gatherings with international participation PAHO. The confirmed onset of El Niño over the Pacific in early July, with projections for rapid strengthening into an intense event by year-end, presents additional environmental risks for the region UNDRR. Protection concerns are acute in affected provinces, where organized crime violence particularly impacts child protection through forced recruitment and community-level insecurity ACAPS.