Ecuadorian educators march in Quito against fuel price hikes and new labor rules

Thousands of educators and students marched through Quito on Saturday, June 13, 2026, to protest against the government's economic policies and a recent ministerial agreement. The Union of National Educators (UNE), alongside the Federation of Secondary Students of Ecuador (FESE) and other public sector unions, led the demonstration.

“

the decisions of the state are a 'package that directly hits family budgets'.

The protesters voiced strong opposition to the recent increase in fuel prices, which the UNE described as a "package that directly hits family budgets." They argued that higher fuel costs would trigger immediate inflation, increasing prices for food, essential goods, and public transportation. The educators also deemed the current basic unified salary of $482 insufficient.

“

the increase in petroleum derivatives generates an immediate inflationary effect that raises the costs of food, basic products, and public transport fares.

A primary driver of the protest was the demand for the repeal of Ministerial Agreement 0045-A. The UNE contends that this agreement from the Ministry of Education alters labor loads and "violates acquired rights" under the Organic Law of Intercultural Education (LOEI), thereby "precariousness working conditions." The Ministry of Education, however, stated the agreement clarifies the use of Saturdays for complementary activities in public schools.

“

the current basic unified salary ($482) is 'insufficient'.

The marchers carried banners and chanted slogans through the city center. The UNE warned of further mobilizations in various provinces if the government fails to respond to their labor and social demands. Police and traffic authorities implemented an operation to manage traffic and ensure security around the Historic Center.

“

violates acquired rights in the Organic Law of Intercultural Education (LOEI) and 'precariousness working conditions within state educational institutions'.