Ecuador’s government has tasked the Foreign Ministry with attracting international support to combat rising violence. President Noboa pushes for foreign special forces and a constitutional amendment to enable foreign military bases, while legislative discussions and public sentiment indicate controversy over this approach amid calls for stronger social policy to address crime.
Ecuador’s Foreign Ministry will oversee the international support for national security amid rising violence. The government has instructed the Ministry to leverage diplomatic channels to enlist special forces from allied nations. Sommerfeld stated plans are in place to develop a roadmap for identifying supportive countries and establishing legal frameworks for collaboration.
President Daniel Noboa has advocated for foreign special forces to enhance the capabilities of Ecuador’s Armed Forces and National Police. The National Assembly intends to deliberate on the matter; however, a recent session was suspended, leaving legislators seeking clarifications on the Executive’s objectives.
Noboa is also pursuing a constitutional amendment to permit foreign military bases in Ecuador. His proposal is controversial, as the existing constitution, established in 2008, forbids such installations. The proposed change targets Article 5, citing a need to combat organized crime effectively.
Analysts argue that successful crime reduction requires a focus on strengthening social policies rather than relying on international military support. Critics within the opposition suggest Noboa’s strategy indicates the failure of his previous initiatives, such as the Phoenix Plan and increased taxation measures.
Security expert Luis Córdova noted that, under current agreements, only U.S. forces are authorized to operate in Ecuador. This arrangement was formalized under former President Guillermo Lasso’s administration and re-affirmed in early 2024 by Noboa, pointing to limited foreign military engagement options.
Currently, there seems to be little interest from Washington in collaborating with Noboa, as analysts surmise any potential U.S. involvement may access unconventional military strategies without substantial commitments. This situation raises further questions regarding Ecuador’s security management under external pressures.
Ecuador seeks to bolster its security by potentially integrating foreign special forces due to escalating violence. President Noboa aims to amend the constitution to allow foreign military bases, while analysts and opposition voices emphasize the need for comprehensive social policies as a sustainable solution. The future of Ecuador’s diplomatic and military relations remains uncertain, particularly regarding U.S. involvement.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
