Ecuador’s military faces cuts as security risks build

Subject

Military pressures.

Significance

The military has become more visible in Ecuador in recent months, with soldiers and tanks deployed on the streets in October, to tackle protests over the elimination of fuel subsidies. Defence Minister Oswaldo Jarrin has become a focus of popular discontent with the security forces, which were accused of using excessive force to contain the unrest. The protests, together with increased drug trafficking and organised crime, have compounded pressures already faced by the security forces due to budget cuts, more of which are planned for 2020.

Impacts

• Investigations into protester deaths will generate tensions between the government and security forces.
• Close attention will be paid to the tactics and force used by the security forces during future protests.
• Washington may use stronger Ecuador ties to bolster its presence in the Andean region.