News story

State of emergency declared in Ecuador

On 30 September a nationwide strike was called by all levels of police, including the military police. If you have plans to travel, you should contact your airline.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Airports in Guayaquil, Quito and other major cities have been closed and major highways around the country are being closed. The security situation has deteriorated significantly, and there are blockages of multiple roads including by tyre fires. Therefore, a state of emergency has now been declared for a week.

British nationals are advised to remain indoors, either at home or in their current location, if safe to do so.

We will also continue to provide new information as it becomes available.

Speaking on 1 October, Foreign Office Minister Jeremy Browne said:

“We are very concerned about the ongoing unrest in Ecuador. The UK strongly urges all parties to refrain from violence and to respect the democratic, constitutional government of Ecuador. I call on all sides to restore order quickly and peacefully.”

Published 30 September 2010