By Lena Souza
The national strike in Ecuador enters its third day and is growing stronger every day. What began as protests against rising diesel prices, the cost of living, and Daniel Noboa’s neoliberal policies has turned into a massive popular uprising, with demonstrations in 22 provinces across the country. Indigenous peoples, peasants, students, and urban workers have joined forces in the streets, on highways, and in squares, setting up roadblocks and holding community assemblies. Indignation over precarious conditions and official indifference is fueling a mobilization spreading throughout the country.
Noboa has violently repressed protesters and confronted indigenous leaders and the country’s population
Noboa’s response has been to intensify repression. Through the militarization of territories, arbitrary detentions, and the brutal use of force, the government is attempting to suppress legitimate protests and apply anti-terrorism laws to demonstrators. Rather than opening a dialogue, the president has resorted to violent and racist rhetoric. The statement he has made against indigenous peoples: “They want to drive us out of their territories; we will drive them out of the country,” clearly demonstrates the policy of hatred and exclusion he seeks to impose.
His direct confrontation with the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) is no coincidence. The indigenous movement has historically been at the forefront of social struggles and remains the main organized force challenging neoliberal policies. The criminalization of protests and the persecution of their leaders are part of a state strategy that seeks to break resistance but has instead strengthened it.
International solidarity is necessary
In the face of Noboa’s authoritarian and racist offensive, showing international solidarity with the Ecuadorian people is more urgent than ever. The country’s community and alternative media outlets have revealed how the mainstream media is hiding the magnitude of the strike and covering up state violence. It is of the utmost importance for social and popular movements in Latin America and the world to support the voices of communities, denounce repression, and spread their demands.
The struggle in Ecuador is not isolated; it is part of a continental battle against neoliberalism and the governments that prioritize the interests of elites and transnational corporations over the lives and dignity of the people. Now more than ever, we must raise our voices and firmly affirm our support for the indigenous and popular resistance in Ecuador.
