The Decision
In a significant decision, Ecuadorians have voted against oil drilling in a protected area of the Amazon, forcing the state oil company to halt its operations in this biodiverse region that also serves as a home to isolated tribes.
The Results
With over 90% of ballots counted by early Monday, approximately six in 10 Ecuadorians rejected the proposal for oil exploration in Block 43, which is located within the Yasuni National Park. The referendum was held alongside the presidential election, which now enters a runoff between leftist candidate Luisa González and right-wing contender Daniel Noboa. The political landscape remains tense following the assassination of one of the candidates, Fernando Villavicencio.
Yasuni National Park and its Importance
Yasuni National Park is not only inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Tagaeri and Taromenani, who choose to live in voluntary isolation, but also other indigenous communities. Recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a world biosphere reserve in 1989, this park covers around 2.5 million acres and is home to an impressive array of flora and fauna. It boasts 610 species of birds, 139 species of amphibians, and 121 species of reptiles. Additionally, at least three species found here are endemic.
Words from an Indigenous Leader
Nemo Guiquita, a leader of the Waorani tribe expressed his gratitude for this outcome: “Ecuadorians have united for this cause to provide life opportunities for our Indigenous brothers and sisters. We also want to demonstrate to the world, especially during these challenging times of climate change, our unwavering support for the rainforest,” he said in a phone interview with The Associated Press.
Background on the Referendum
The referendum is the culmination of a lengthy and complex process. It all began in 2007 when former President Rafael Correa announced that Ecuador would forgo oil exploration in Block 43 if wealthy nations were willing to compensate the financially struggling country. This compensation would involve the establishment of a $3.6 billion fund, equivalent to 50% of the projected revenue from the block.
Preserving Biodiversity and Protecting Indigenous Communities: Ecuador Rejects Oil Drilling in the Amazon
Ecuador’s Decision on Oil Exploration
The intention of Ecuador to proceed with oil exploration in the Yasuni block has sparked a campaign led by Indigenous and environmentalist movements. Seeking to amass signatures for a referendum, the Yasunidos movement has fought legal battles and bureaucratic hurdles for almost a decade. Finally, in May, the Supreme Court ruled that the measure must be included in this year’s election.
This ruling represents a major setback for President Guillermo Lasso, who advocated for oil drilling, arguing that the revenues it generates are crucial to the country’s economy. The state-owned oil company, Petroecuador, which currently produces nearly 60,000 barrels a day in Yasuni, will be required to dismantle its operations in the coming months.
Ecuador, an ex-member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), began exploring oil on a large scale in the Amazon in the 1970s. Oil has since become Ecuador’s primary export, accounting for 35.5% of total exports in 2022 according to the Central Bank. Block 43 alone contributes $1.2 billion annually to the federal budget.
Petroecuador released a statement on Monday announcing that it would await the conclusion of the ballot counting before providing any further comments on the referendum. The company added that it would respect the decision made by the Ecuadorian people.
It’s important to note that the referendum only applies to Block 43 within the Yasuni region. Oil production extends to other parts of the Yasuni park and Indigenous territories within the Amazon region. Unfortunately, accidents like oil spills into the rivers are common occurrences.
Although there is relief and happiness among the Indigenous communities after this milestone, there is still concern about the remaining oil wells in the Waorani territory causing harm. They hope that this public consultation will pave the way for a decision-making process that truly belongs to the people, allowing them to remove those who are extracting oil and polluting their land.
