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IFES - Ecuador

Ecuador

In 2004, Ecuador marked 25 years of civilian governance, but this period has been subject to much political instability. There have been seven presidents since 1996 and increased demonstrations have indicated significant popular discontent with the economic and political progress of the country. A second round of elections on the 26th of November will decide the next President of the country.

Current Projects

Promoting the Equitable Participation of Afro-Ecuadorians

To address the widespread discrimination against and marginalization of the afro-descendent population in Ecuador, IFES is working with local afro-Ecuadorian organizations to provide comprehensive services to increase awareness of afro-Ecuadorians among the general population and strengthen the institutional capacity of these organizations.

IFES provides political leadership training and promotes dialogue with political parties to increase voter participation and monitor the participation of afro-Ecuadorians in elections.

Specific objectives to advance these general goals include:

• Increase the visibility of the afro-Ecuadorian population and their political participation through leadership training and dialogue with political parties and leaders;
• Increased public awareness and education through mechanisms such as candidate forums, civic education materials and public outreach activities; and
• Provide local afro-Ecuadorian nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) with the necessary tools to ensure efficiency and sustainability in their community strengthening efforts.

The impact of IFES’ program will provide equitable political access for afro-Ecuadorians, increase the visibility of the afro-Ecuadorian population, lay the foundation for a more democratic government in Ecuador and set guideposts for future assistance.

Promoting the Equitable Participation of Afro-Ecuadorians

IFES in coordination with Afro-America XXI and the Q'ellkaj Foundation are planning a program that will promote the equitable participation of Afro and Indigenous Ecuadorians. The project is designed to provide the necessary tools and opportunities to increase the involvement of these minorities in the country both politically and socially.