Ecuador’s New State of Exception Has No Curfew, But It Expands Security Powers

Ecuador's new state of exception is now active in much of the country, but it does not currently include a curfew.

The measure applies for 60 days in ten provinces and three cantons as part of the government's response to security conditions linked to organized crime.

Where It Applies

The decree covers these provinces:

• Guayas
• Manabi
• Santa Elena
• Los Rios
• El Oro
• Esmeraldas
• Pichincha
• Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas
• Sucumbios
• Azuay

It also includes the cantons of La Mana, Las Naves and La Troncal.

No Curfew For Now

Unlike some previous states of exception, the current decree does not establish mobility restrictions or hours for circulation.

That means people can move during the day and night in the areas where the measure applies, unless a future order changes that.

What Rights Can Be Limited

The decree allows the temporary suspension of inviolability of domicile and correspondence.

In practical terms, this gives security forces more room to carry out interventions tied to the objectives of the state of exception, while still operating under constitutional controls such as necessity and proportionality.

Citizens keep core rights including access to justice, freedom of expression, due process and the ability to challenge possible abuses through legal mechanisms.

Why These Areas Were Included

The covered territories account for most of Ecuador's violent-death burden this year. From January through April 2026, they recorded 2,648 murders out of 2,778 nationwide.

The provinces with the largest totals were Guayas with 1,223 violent deaths, El Oro with 359, Manabi with 348 and Los Rios with 337.

The measure allows the Armed Forces to support public-space control and security operations rather than leaving those duties solely to the National Police.

What This Means For Expats

For daily life, the main point is simple: there is no curfew right now. Restaurants, travel, work and normal movement are not automatically restricted by the decree.

Still, residents should expect more visible police and military activity in covered areas. Carry ID, avoid filming active operations up close, and pay attention if a local authority announces a narrower control in your city or province.

For property owners and renters, the home-search piece is the detail to understand. The decree expands what security forces can do during the emergency period, but it does not remove your right to due process or legal challenge if an operation is abusive.