Ecuador's President Proposes Allowing Foreign Military Bases to Combat Crime

Daniel Noboa seeks constitutional reform to address rising gang violence and drug trafficking.

President Daniel Noboa has submitted a proposal to amend Ecuador's constitution to permit foreign military bases.
The move aims to bolster the fight against transnational crime gangs that have increased violence and drug trafficking in the country.
The proposal follows the 2008 ban on foreign military bases, which Noboa criticizes for weakening Ecuador's security.
The constitutional amendment requires approval from the constitutional court, the National Assembly, and a public referendum.
Noboa's initiative is seen as a strategic move ahead of his re-election campaign in February 2025 amidst declining approval ratings.