New Ecuador Law Lets Government Spy Without Oversight

Ecuador’s government passed a new intelligence law on June 11, 2025, to fight a surge in violent crime. Official police data show that in 2024, Ecuador had nearly 7,000 murders, with violence rising even more in early 2025.

President Daniel Noboa’s team says the new law will help control powerful criminal groups. The law creates a big intelligence system that brings together the military, police, tax, customs, and other agencies.

The president picks the person in charge. This system can collect information from phone and internet companies without needing a judge’s approval. The law also lets agencies listen to calls, read messages, and track people’s locations.

The government says these powers are needed to stop gangs and make the country safer. They have also asked Erik Prince, founder of private security company Blackwater, to help train police and military.

Ecuador has made new security deals with the United States to get more equipment and technology. However, critics warn that the law removes important protections for ordinary people.

There is no judge or independent body checking how the intelligence agencies use their new powers.  The only review comes from the State Comptroller, and all records must be destroyed after inspection.

This means there is no way for people to check if the government made mistakes or abused its power. Business leaders and journalists worry that the law could let the government see private business information or news sources without warning.

Civil society groups say the law makes it easier for the government to watch anyone it wants, even if they are not criminals. They fear this could be used against people who disagree with the government.

The law forbids spying on people for their religion, politics, or ethnicity, and bans using children in intelligence work. Breaking these rules can lead to punishment.

Still, many believe the law gives too much power to the government and not enough protection for citizens. Ecuador’s new intelligence law shows how hard it is to balance safety and rights.

The country faces real dangers from organized crime, but the new rules could also threaten privacy, business, and democracy. The debate continues as Ecuador tries to find the right path forward.