The Government of Germany has committed EUR 25 million to a new project supporting migrants, returnees, and host communities in Ecuador, with a particular focus on women and youth. The initiative, implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), aims to improve safety, quality of life, and socioeconomic development across the country.
The Opportunities project, funded through the German Development Bank (KfW) and led by Ecuador's Vice Ministry of Human Mobility, will be implemented over four years. Its three core components are: creating and revitalizing safe public spaces, expanding employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and promoting initiatives that strengthen coexistence, dignity, and well-being.
"This project offers a concrete medium- and long-term response to the needs that must be addressed to promote development for both migrants and host communities in Ecuador," said Catalina Devandas, IOM DG Representative and Senior Director of Partnerships. "By focusing on women and youth, the project helps ensure that those most often excluded from decision-making are able to exercise their rights, access opportunities, and contribute to building stronger and more inclusive communities."
Labor inclusion efforts will be carried out primarily through the IOM Ecuador Enterprise Development Fund (EDF), which provides non-reimbursable grants to small and medium-sized enterprises, creating new employment opportunities and improving employability.
"This initiative reflects Germany's commitment to Ecuador," said Frank Weiler, Head of the Sustainable Mobility and Social Development Division for Latin America and the Caribbean at KfW. "It is a comprehensive project designed to improve quality of life, promote economic autonomy, and drive sustainable local development."
Empowering women and youth to take on leadership roles is central to the initiative, encouraging them to contribute to social cohesion and help prevent gender-based violence. This will be complemented by awareness campaigns on protection services and activities that strengthen community ties and reduce irregular migration.
The project is part of the Financial Cooperation between the Federal Republic of Germany and Ecuador. It is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW, under the "Peace and Social Cohesion" cluster of German Cooperation in Ecuador.
