Ecuador’s presidential elections are critical for the Amazon’s future, with both main candidates endorsing extractivism and limiting Indigenous governance. President Noboa faces a rising security crisis and human rights issues, while Luisa González represents a politically charged legacy. The Indigenous movement, led by Leonidas Iza, remains a pivotal force in the upcoming runoff election, with potential to influence the government’s environmental policies and Indigenous rights.
On February 9, 2025, Ecuador conducted presidential elections amidst a severe political, economic, security, and social crisis. Following the first round, Ecuadorians are set to return for a critical runoff on April 13, which could significantly impact the future of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Both candidates, incumbent President Daniel Noboa and opposition leader Luisa González, promote ongoing oil drilling and extractivism, while undermining Indigenous governance and increasing political oppression.
President Noboa, who garnered 44.6% of the votes, has faced significant challenges, including a notable security crisis, which escalated violence in Ecuador. His administration has been characterized by heightened militarization and human rights violations. Conversely, González, representing former president Rafael Correa’s political movement and securing 44.02% of the vote, promotes leftist policies but has also engaged in extractivism and political repression.
Leonidas Iza, leader of the Indigenous movement, serves as the third political force with 5.24% of the votes. His anti-extractivism stance positions the Indigenous movement as pivotal in the upcoming runoff election. The enduring struggle against oil drilling and the push for climate justice will intensify, especially following the failed implementation of the Yasuní popular referendum.
Since assuming office, Noboa’s administration has been plagued by a rising security crisis, with violence surging in Ecuador. He implemented a militarized security strategy, Plan Fénix, yet witnessed a steep increase in homicides, peaking in January 2025 with 731 murders. There has been a troubling rise in human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances, particularly of minors, which have drawn significant criticism from human rights advocates.
The economic landscape is further complicated by an energy crisis linked to inadequate investment in hydroelectric infrastructures, resulting in extended blackouts and economic losses. Noboa’s government has sought to strengthen ties with the U.S. through security agreements, while proposing controversial constitutional reforms that could dilute Indigenous rights regarding environmental and territorial governance.
The government has also promoted extensive foreign investment in mining, a move that may exacerbate social conflicts and environmental degradation. A surge in illegal gold mining activity has intensified struggles over territorial control and fueled violence and criminal activities across the Amazon region, threatening Indigenous governance.
González’s candidacy is rooted in the legacy of Correísmo, a prior government marked by substantial social investment but also notable corruption and extractivist policies. Though she promotes social initiatives, her past decisions reflect a complicity with extractivism that raises questions about a potential return to authoritarian politics.
Despite their limited electoral power, the Indigenous movement has historically influenced Ecuador’s political landscape. The movement’s ongoing resistance against extractivism may play a decisive role in the coming elections. The challenge lies in navigating their relationship with candidates who have shown little regard for Indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.
As election strategies develop, the Indigenous community faces decisions about candidate support or promoting a null vote to signify discontent with the current political climate. Their significant organizational capacity remains crucial for impacting the elections and engaging in the broader fight for the Amazon’s future and climate justice.
The upcoming runoff elections in Ecuador will be pivotal for the future of the Amazon. With both main candidates endorsing extractivist policies and undermining Indigenous rights, the Indigenous movement, led by Leonidas Iza, is positioned as a critical force. Their ongoing mobilization efforts against militarization and extractivism could ultimately influence the election outcome and shape environmental and social governance in Ecuador.
Original Source: amazonwatch.org
