Economic unrest fuels shortages of food and fuel as Indigenous-led demonstrations escalate.

Ecuador is grappling with severe food and fuel shortages as violent protests continue across the country, spurred by discontent with the economic policies of President Guillermo Lasso. The protests, which began on June 14, are primarily led by the Indigenous organization Conaie, calling for a reduction in gasoline prices, price controls on agricultural goods, and increased funding for education.

The unrest, which has paralyzed the capital, Quito, and other regions, has escalated over the past 10 days, with clashes between demonstrators and police becoming more frequent. Despite growing pressure, the Ecuadorian government has rejected the conditions set by protesters for negotiations, further inflaming tensions. In response to the unrest, the United States has issued a travel advisory warning citizens to reconsider visiting Ecuador due to civil unrest and rising crime.

The protests started with peaceful roadblocks but have become increasingly violent, prompting President Lasso, a former banker, to declare a state of exception in six provinces in an attempt to restore order. The ongoing crisis highlights the deepening divide over economic policies and the government’s handling of public demands for relief.