International Assistance in Ecuador

Why we are on site

Ecuador is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. However, the country has a multitude of problems to grapple with, from poverty and inequality, to environmental destruction, water scarcity and violence, right up to the effects of armed conflict in Colombia. Many families are dependent on agriculture. However, the crops that are able to be cultivated are often insufficient for the people to provide for themselves. The indigenous population in the rural areas is particularly subject to impoverishment. There is often inadequate access to drinking water and appropriate health care. In addition, the local ecosystems face a continuing destruction. Women in particular suffer in this situation and from the great gender inequality, which is often accompanied by gender-specific violence. Additionally, more than 400,000 Venezuelan refugees face a increasing xenophobia.

What we achieve together with our partner organisations

In the Andean region in northern Ecuador, our partners support indigenous smallholders in the development of sustainable agriculture. Among other things, irrigation systems are being installed to make them less dependent on the increasingly irregular rainfall. In the Pacific region of Ecuador, we work on securing the livelihood of the rural population. To protect the local ecosystems, we implemented measures for a sustainable usage. In addition, marginalized women in the province of Sucumbíos are enabled to secure their livelihood and participate in the political sphere. This strengthens their position in their communities and families. Additionally, we support the economic and social integration of Venezuelan regugees in four cities.