GENEVA - UN experts* today expressed deep concern over credible reports of a rapid deterioration of civic space affecting Indigenous Peoples and human rights defenders in Ecuador.
"Indigenous Peoples are central to Ecuador's stability and economic future. Authorities should urgently ensure accountability for any excessive use of force and persecution, and create conditions for inclusive dialogue," the experts said.
Allegations include excessive and at times lethal force in the context of protests, with demonstrators and leaders being persecuted, arbitrarily detentained and charged with terrorism, the experts noted. Reportedly, communities have been militarised and the bank accounts of Indigenous and civil society organisations have been frozen. Reports also suggest due process failures, including lack of legal defence and interpretation for Indigenous detainees.
"Civil society, human rights defenders and Indigenous leadership, including women leaders, must be able to act free from persecution, criminalisation and reprisals," they said.
The experts are also concerned by information that extractive projects are proceeding in Indigenous Peoples' territories without free, prior and informed consent. "Any such initiatives must comply with international standards," they said.
"Full respect for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is a valuable tool for fostering reconciliation and collaboration between Indigenous Peoples and States," the experts said.
They urged Ecuador to uphold international standards on the rights to liberty and security of the person, and the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, association and expression. They also called for prompt, impartial and independent investigations into the alleged violations.
"We look forward to engaging the Government on the issues affecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Ecuador - a country once regarded as a reference point for Indigenous People's rights in the region," the experts said.
The experts have been in contact with the Government of Ecuador on these concerns.
