Amnesty International calls on Ecuador’s presidential candidates to address human rights concerns ahead of the tie-breaking election on April 13, 2025. Significant allegations of human rights violations have arisen during President Noboa’s administration, prompting HRW and Amnesty to seek policy commitments from candidates regarding the protection of human rights.
Amnesty International has formally appealed to Ecuador’s presidential candidates to prioritize human rights issues in their agendas in light of the upcoming tie-breaking run-off election on April 13, 2025. The organization highlights significant concerns raised by various international entities regarding potential human rights violations occurring within the country over the years.
The February 9th election resulted in a tie between incumbent President Daniel Noboa, who has been in office since November 2023, and challenger Luisa González. Numerous legal and human rights concerns have arisen during Noboa’s administration, including the issuance of a localized 60-day state of emergency in May 2024, despite the Constitutional Court deeming the prior declaration unconstitutional. Throughout 2024, alarming allegations have been made related to mass arrests, extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances.
In a letter dated May 2024, Human Rights Watch expressed apprehension regarding President Noboa’s declaration of an “internal armed conflict,” asserting it lacked legal justification and posed a risk for human rights violations. HRW called on the government to implement policies that uphold human rights standards.
A disturbing incident occurred in December 2024, where four boys aged between 11 to 15 were reported forcibly disappeared by military forces. Subsequently, the Human Rights Commission lodged a petition with the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances, while the Ecuadorian government dismissed these allegations.
Amnesty International’s letter references these allegations of forced disappearances and other human rights violations, emphasizing the necessity for the candidates to articulate solutions through policies adhering to human rights standards. The organization poses critical questions to the candidates regarding their commitments to human rights throughout the election campaign, specifically regarding security strategies and the ongoing prison crisis.
The final presidential debate is scheduled for March 23, leading up to the decisive vote on April 13, 2025.
In conclusion, Amnesty International’s appeal to Ecuador’s presidential candidates underscores the vital need to address pressing human rights concerns amidst reported violations under the current administration. The organization’s inquiries challenge the candidates to present concrete policies ensuring respect for human rights in their governance. The upcoming election and debates will be pivotal in determining the future direction of human rights in Ecuador.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
