** Ecuador: an electoral duel in a context of violence and division **
On April 13, 2025, Ecuadorian voters will face a crucial choice during the second round of the presidential election, opposing outgoing president Daniel Noboa to the left candidate Luisa Gonzalez. This ballot is part of a particularly tense context, marked by a rise in violence linked to drug trafficking and a deep political division.
### A country in crisis
The Ecuador, which once counted among the most peaceful countries in Latin America, has seen his social and economic landscape transforming dramatically in recent years. Today, with a population of 18 million inhabitants, the country is in the grip of alarming homicide rates-a murder committed almost every hour, a sad record for the year 2025. These statistics reveal the devastating impact of the narcotrafic gangs which proliferate, exacerbating insecurity in many regions, as evidenced by the unique violence.
### Profile of candidates: Daniel Noboa against Luisa Gonzalez
Daniel Noboa, a 37 -year -old millionaire entrepreneur, reached the presidency in early elections in 2023. His approach marked by economic rigor and security measures placed him at the center of a reform aimed at countering delinquency. Its policy, well received by part of the right, advocates economic solutions based on private initiative and partnerships with international economic actors. However, his security methods have aroused criticism and concerns concerning respect for human rights, in particular following tragic incidents such as the death of children during security operations.
Opposite, Luisa Gonzalez, 47 -year -old lawyer, aspires to become the first woman president of the equator. It represents an alternative vision, pleading for a protective state which would invest more in infrastructure and public services. Gonzalez embodies an aspiration for social justice in a country where almost 28 % of the population lives below the poverty line. His project also offers a security approach which promises to respect human rights, thus seeking to establish a clear distinction with the hard line adopted by his opponent.
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The results of the first round, very tight, reveal how polarized the equator is currently. Tensions were exacerbated during the campaign, amplified by the accusations of fraud appropriate by Noboa, although observers, such as the electoral mission of the European Union, have not pointed out any major irregularity. In this context, whatever the result, the new president will face a divided nation, both politically and socially.
## economic and social consequences
Beyond political rivalries, the economic situation of the equator constitutes a complex backdrop. With an unemployment rate and underemployment affecting almost 23 % of the population, many citizens aspire to concrete solutions that will improve their quality of life. Indeed, the years of rapid growth linked to oil exports have dried up, giving way to high public debt, close to 57 % of GDP, and growing frustrations among the population.
The economic models proposed by the candidates illustrate this dichotomy: Noboa promotes reforms which involve a liberal economic orientation, while Gonzalez militates for public investments more focused on social well-being. In short, this second round is less a simple political confrontation than a real barometer which could decide on the economic and social direction that the country will take for the years to come.
### to reconciliation?
The equator is at a crossroads. The challenge for the future president will be to unify a fractured nation, to restore security while respecting fundamental rights, and to revive an economy in difficulty. The political choices to come will have a deep impact on the daily lives of Ecuadorians and determine the trajectory of this country rich in resources but in the grip of multiple crises.
The dialogue between divergent social projects is essential. The promises of change must be confronted with a complex reality, where neither of the candidates can claim to have all the solutions. Voters are entitled to expect clear commitments and realistic avenues which meet the multiple challenges that the equator is confronted today.
### Conclusion
The presidential election of 2025 in equator is not just a duel between two candidates, but represents an opportunity for the Ecuadorian company to redefine its priorities and to find a path to real reconciliation. There are many questions: how to build a future that ensures all security and dignity? What are the basics of a fruitful dialogue between the different political visions? The coming days will be decisive to meet these issues.