The United States has played a crucial role in enhancing security measures in Ecuador throughout 2024. The U.S. Government has supported Ecuador through various initiatives aimed at improving public safety, strengthening the judicial system, and promoting social welfare among vulnerable communities and at-risk youth. These programs have been executed in collaboration with the Ecuadorian government, municipalities, private organizations, and non-profits.
In 2024, initiatives such as "Safe Communities" impacted 26,000 people across 11 priority cities including Guayaquil, Quito, and Esmeraldas. This initiative involved training over 400 National Police officers alongside community crime prevention projects that included recreational programs and public space recovery efforts.
Another significant project was "Back to the Center," which focused on enhancing safety in Quito’s Historic Center. With support from the private sector and community partners, this initiative promoted public space rehabilitation and urban planning to improve security and tourism.
The "Sports for Social Change" program influenced the lives of 150 at-risk children and youth along with 65 community leaders by using sports as a tool for social change in regions like Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, Pichincha, and Imbabura.
Judicial system strengthening was another major focus of U.S.-Ecuador cooperation this year. Over 900 judicial officials received training to enhance their capacity to prosecute corruption and organized crime cases. Since 2022, specialized courts have resolved 2,069 cases under these initiatives.
Cybersecurity efforts were bolstered through the "iGuardian" program which trained more than 2,970 individuals on cyberspace risks and preventing online child exploitation. Joint operations with the National Police led to rescuing children from exploitation networks.
U.S. support also extended to border security along Colombia's border through "Mirror Operations." These operations resulted in dismantling transnational criminal networks with seizures of vehicles used for smuggling activities.
The United States remains committed to Ecuador's security efforts as they address shared challenges together into 2025.