Ecuador migrant crisis to compound Moreno’s problems

Significance

Ecuador is an attractive destination for Venezuelans, offering easy access to US dollars. It is also a transit route for migrants travelling to Peru and Chile. The migrant surge adds to President Lenin Moreno's challenges, as he tries to reduce public spending, stimulate the economy and tackle a security crisis on the Colombian border.

Impacts

• Migration will be a key topic in next year’s local elections with right-wing candidates likely to benefit.
• Migration may tighten the Venezuelan government’s grip on power, removing likely dissenters and boosting remittances.
• Tensions between Colombia, Ecuador and Peru may increase as each country attempts to limit migrant numbers.