Ecuador's Escalation: When the War on Drugs Masks Deeper Injustices

Dear friends,
Recent revelations from an article by renowned Ecuadorian jurist and criminologist, Jorge Vicente Paladines, have further highlighted the complexity and injustices in the War on Drugs. The situation in Ecuador has escalated, with drug trafficking now being used as a premise for militarization and potential human rights violations.

In a startling move, many gangs have been declared as 'terrorist organizations', allowing for immediate neutralization using lethal force.
The state's new strategy, underpinned by ambiguous definitions of terrorism in both national and international contexts, raises alarming concerns. Not only is there a risk of extrajudicial actions, but there is also a looming threat of ethnic profiling, rooted in prejudice, potentially targeting specific racial and ethnic groups in the name of counter-narco-terrorism.
Such measures, while intending to control organized crime, could perpetuate the cycle of violence, discrimination, and systemic racism.

As we continue to advocate for compensation and support for communities affected by the War on Drugs, it's essential to recognize and challenge these evolving tactics that further marginalize and harm vulnerable communities.

Join us in standing against these practices and pushing for just, informed, and compassionate solutions.

Catch you soon with more updates!

Till then take good care of yourself and preserve the fire within,

(This update is based on an article published on IDPC website as a blog dated 13 July 2023. Photo source: Fotos593 / Shutterstock.com)