Ecuador president declares new state of emergency in 10 provinces, 3 municipalities

President Daniel Noboa has imposed a new state of emergency across 10 provinces and 3 municipalities in Ecuador, citing "grave conmoción interna" or severe internal unrest. This declaration, effective immediately and lasting for 60 days, grants security forces expanded powers to restore public order and combat criminal activities. It also suspends the inviolability of the home, permitting security forces to enter private residences if illicit activities are suspected.

The move comes just 16 days after a previous state of emergency expired on June 1. Noboa had previously stated in April that the existing state of emergency would not be extended, suggesting a new one would be declared if necessary for special operations. Since declaring a "state of internal armed conflict" in January 2024, Noboa has repeatedly used states of exception, with their scope varying based on the evolving situation.

Despite these measures and the government's classification of criminal gangs as "terrorists," Ecuador recorded approximately 9,300 homicides in 2025, a record high for the country and the highest rate in Latin America. The government had also implemented nightly curfews in some provinces during March and May to curb criminal activity.