What's happened
Ecuador's ongoing protests against fuel subsidy removal have led to violence, with one protester killed and hundreds detained. President Noboa has declared a state of emergency, deploying thousands of troops amid clashes with Indigenous groups demanding the subsidy be restored. The protests are centered in northern provinces and Quito.
What's behind the headline?
The protests reflect deep economic and political tensions in Ecuador, especially among Indigenous communities hit hardest by fuel price hikes. President Noboa's hardline stance and refusal to negotiate have escalated the conflict, risking further violence and instability. The deployment of thousands of troops and the declaration of a state of emergency suggest the government aims to suppress dissent, but this approach may deepen mistrust and provoke more unrest. The protests also highlight broader issues of inequality and governance, with Indigenous groups seeking co-governance and economic justice. The situation will likely worsen if the government maintains its current stance, potentially leading to prolonged unrest in urban and rural areas. International observers warn that continued violence could destabilize the country further.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that protests have turned violent, with one civilian killed and over a hundred arrested, as the government deploys military forces to Quito. Al Jazeera highlights the scale of military deployment and the accusations of government repression, emphasizing the Indigenous groups' claims of peaceful protest and government violence. Both sources agree that the protests are driven by fuel subsidy cuts and economic hardship, but differ in tone: The Independent criticizes the government's heavy-handed response, while Al Jazeera notes the government's stance on maintaining order. The coverage from both outlets underscores the escalating tension and the risk of further violence, with The Independent focusing on recent clashes and the death of a protester, and Al Jazeera providing context on the military's role and the political dynamics.
How we got here
Protests began two weeks ago after President Daniel Noboa cut a fuel subsidy, raising diesel prices from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon. Indigenous groups, particularly CONAIE, organized nationwide demonstrations, citing economic hardship and the impact on rural communities. The government responded with police and military deployment, declaring a state of emergency in 10 provinces, and refusing to reverse the subsidy cut. The protests have intensified, with clashes and accusations of excessive force.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why are Ecuador's fuel subsidies being cut?
Ecuador has recently made the controversial decision to cut fuel subsidies, leading to widespread protests and unrest. Many residents, especially in rural areas and indigenous communities, are feeling the economic impact of rising fuel prices. This move has sparked questions about the reasons behind the subsidy cuts, the scale of the protests, and what it means for Ecuador's future. Below, we explore the key issues and answer common questions about this ongoing crisis.
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Daniel Roy Gilchrist Noboa Azín ( noh-BOH-ə; [daˈnjel noˈβo.a]; born 30 November 1987) is an Ecuadorian politician and businessman serving as the 48th and current president of Ecuador since 2023. Having first taken office at the age of 35, he is the
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Ecuador, officially the Republic of Ecuador, is a country in northwestern South America, bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west.
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Quito is the capital of Ecuador, the country's most populous city, and at an elevation of 2,850 metres above sea level, it is the second-highest official capital city in the world, after La Paz, and the closest to the equator.