Indigenous strike in Ecuador: The shocking end of the ceasefire and new demands on the government

The end of the indigenous strike in Ecuador does not mean the end of the struggle. Conaie announces new actions and keeps the resistance against Daniel Noboa's government alive.
by October 22, 2025
Conaie protesters march through the streets of Imbabura during the Ecuadorian indigenous strike, demanding respect for the rights of indigenous peoples.
Members of indigenous communities participated in the Ecuadorian indigenous strike, a mobilization that marked a turning point in the country's social history.
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The Ecuadorian indigenous strike marked a key moment in the country's recent history, reflecting the struggles and demands of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE and Daniel Noboa). For weeks, indigenous communities held protests that paralyzed several provinces, especially Imbabura. Amid the tension, President Daniel Noboa faced strong pressure to address their demands. Although Marlon Vargas, leader of CONAIE, announced the end of the strike, he clarified that the mobilization will continue in new forms of resistance against the government. This conflict highlights the complex relationship between the state and indigenous peoples, anticipating new political and social challenges for the coming months.

Ecuadorian Indigenous Strike: The End of the Protests

The recent announcement by the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) regarding the cessation of mobilization and indigenous communities marked a pivotal moment in the history of protests in Ecuador. After weeks of tensions and blockades in several provinces, especially Imbabura, the decision to withdraw and demilitarize territories reflects the complexity of the challenges faced by Indigenous leaders. This act of resistance, which also calls for the release of those detained during the demonstrations, underscores the need for a more just and equitable relationship between the government of Daniel Noboa and the country's Indigenous communities.

The end of the indigenous strike does not symbolize the end of the struggle for the affected communities. Conaie leader Marlon Vargas has emphasized that the resistance will continue through assemblies and new campaigns in defense of Indigenous peoples' rights. The call for civil mobilization against the referendum proposed by Noboa is a clear indication that the disputes are not over. In this context, Indigenous people are preparing to define their future and reaffirm their voice in Ecuadorian politics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ecuadorian indigenous strike and who called it?

The Ecuadorian Indigenous Strike is a series of protests organized by the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) due to concerns over territorial and economic rights. These protests have included roadblocks in multiple provinces, with Imbabura being one of the most affected.

Why did the indigenous strike in Ecuador end?

The end of the indigenous strike in Ecuador was announced by the president of Conaie (National Indigenous Organization), Marlon Vargas, as a necessary measure to protect the lives of the community and return to their territories. This announcement comes after a month of protests against policies of Daniel Noboa's government.

How has Daniel Noboa's government responded to the indigenous strike in Ecuador?

Daniel Noboa's government has responded to the indigenous strike protests in Ecuador by mobilizing the army to reopen roads and address the security situation. Furthermore, Noboa has proposed popular consultations, which CONAIE rejects, leading to calls for resistance.

What demands does the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities still have after the end of the strike?

Despite the cessation of Ecuadorian indigenous protests, CONAIE has continued to make demands of the government, including the demilitarization of indigenous territories, care and reparations for protest victims, and the release of detainees, as well as preparing to combat constitutional reform proposals pushed by Noboa.

What are some of the local reactions to the indigenous strike in Ecuador?

Local reactions to the indigenous strike in Ecuador have been mixed. Some support the demands of the Conaie (National Confederation of Indigenous Peoples) in defense of indigenous rights, while others have expressed concern about the disruptions and violence associated with the protests, which have left at least one person dead.

What impact did the indigenous strike have on Ecuador's provinces?

The social unrest in Ecuador had a significant impact on provinces like Imbabura, where the most notable protests took place. The strike paralyzed traffic on several roads and disrupted daily life, also sparking a national debate on the rights and needs of Indigenous communities in Ecuador.

What does indigenous resistance mean after the end of the strike?

The Indigenous resistance following the end of the strike refers to the ongoing actions and assemblies organized by Conaie (National Confederation of Indigenous Peoples) to prepare campaigns against government proposals and advocate for the rights of Indigenous communities, demonstrating that, although the strike is over, the struggles and negotiations continue.

What are Conaie's future actions after the indigenous strike?

Future actions by CONAIE include preparing a citizen campaign against the referendum and popular consultation proposed by President Noboa, as well as promoting the defense of the constitution, democracy, and the rights acquired by Indigenous peoples.

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