Looking beyond the Laws: Disjuncture between LGBTQ+ Laws and Conditions in Ecuador

Abstract

Despite Ecuador’s progressive laws, there continues to be violence against LGBTQ+ communities. This article analyzes current conditions through the lens of three main areas of life: LGBTQ+ stability and mobility, basic necessities, and safety. It demonstrates that a lack of government enforcement of laws creates constant barriers for LGBTQ+ community members. The work of activists, NGO, NPO, media publications, and intergovernmental organizations is crucial in analyzing the reality of these conditions. Along with the continued progress legislatively and judicially, there needs to be enforcement of these protections, and work put in to drive a social and cultural shift for the protection and progression of LGBTQ+ communities. Furthermore, this article seeks to provide supporting evidence for asylum applicants from countries such as Ecuador by highlighting to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and immigration judges that Ecuadorian laws may not be an accurate reflection of conditions within Ecuador.