The Resistance Speaks: Ecuadorians Reject Government Plans with a Clear 'No'
November 20 2025
3 minutes
Ecuador has spoken. In the November 16th referendum, an overwhelming majority voted against President Noboa's plans: no foreign military bases on Ecuadorian soil, and no reform of the progressive 2008 constitution. For our partners, who campaigned at breakneck speed to raise public awareness, this is a crucial victory.
The victory did not come out of nowhere. The country had been in a state of uncertainty for weeks intense social protests, in September and October, led by the indigenous umbrella organization CONAIE. The abolition of the diesel subsidy was the immediate cause, but a much broader struggle is raging beneath the surface: the democracy itself is under heavy pressure.
The 2008 Progressive Constitution Saved
The 2008 Constitution is a progressive constitution, which among other things recognizes collective rights and the rights of naturePresident Noboa wants to reform this and tried to secure a free pass with this referendum. But the Ecuadorians, to the great relief of our partners, thought otherwise. The message is clear: "buen vivir" must remain Ecuador's guiding principle.
People took to the streets all over the country to join forces to celebrate victoryIn Otavalo, one of the focal points of the social protests, residents also celebrated with a large march. Family members of José Guamán, a member of the indigenous community who died during the protests due to harsh repression by the army and police, carried a banner reading: "José did not die in vain." For our partners, the "no" vote primarily reflects a clear rejection of current policies and a demand to finally take structural problems seriously.
An increasing attack in midfield
But the battle is not over yet. Because human rights organizations and groups that stand up for nature and local communities are being targeted by a new legislation that should muzzle themOrganizations that engage in activities against mining projects risk up to four years of suspension. Activists are intimidated, prosecuted, and even financially crippled.
The space for resistance shrinks every day. It's becoming dangerous to simply stand up for humanity. That's why the referendum was also a defining moment for human rights in Ecuador.
Why INREDH continues to stand up against injustice
INREDH – one of the country's oldest and most respected human rights organizations and partner of 11.11.11 - works under increasingly difficult circumstances. Yet, Luis believes their work is more important today than ever.
"We document rights violations, support victims, and closely monitor social protests," says Luìs. "During the recent protests, our work was essential in exposing the repressive violence. Only by making it visible can we stop it."
Luis remains unsure about the future hopeful"We cannot allow human rights violations to become the norm. That is the core of our work. The government may shut us down, but the people behind INREDH—myself included—will always continue to find ways to defend human rights. Humanity is not weakness; it is resistance. And as long as we continue to stand up against injustice, democracy is not lost."
Help our partners do their work safely
The referendum victory is an important step, but organizations like INREDH are still under immense pressure. With your support, they can continue doing what saves lives: monitoring protests, protecting victims, and defending democratic space. The fight they are waging in Ecuador is a fight for all of us. Make a donation and strengthen the resistance of human rights defenders in Ecuador.