Ecuador is facing one of the most severe waves of violence in its recent history. Every day, violent deaths are reported, and the population lives under constant fear. In this climate, journalism has become one of the most vulnerable professions: so far in 2025, 147 attacks against media workers have been documented, according to Periodistas Sin Cadenas.
Murders that shake journalism
The first crime of the year occurred in March, when journalist Patricio Aguilar was killed while covering a story.
Months later, on August 21, veteran journalist Xavier Ramos, with more than 20 years of experience at El Universo, was found dead at his home in Guayaquil, with four stab wounds. The news shocked both the press community and the public.
“He was a meticulous, rigorous, and committed journalist. He was the kind of reporter who dug into sources until he found the unique detail that turned a story into something truly relevant for the public,” recalled Gisella Ronquillo, editor of the Politics section at El Universo.
Armed attack against a correspondent
On August 29, Marcelo Ruíz , correspondent for TC Televisión in Manabí, was the target of an armed attack while driving his car. He was shot seven times after returning from an assignment. He remains hospitalized in critical condition.
A climate of fear and impunity
Threats, assaults, and murders are taking place in the midst of an ongoing confrontation between the State and criminal gangs, leaving journalists caught in the crossfire of violence with no guarantees of protection.
At Free Press Alliance, we strongly denounce this escalation of attacks against Ecuadorian journalists and urgently call on the State to guarantee their safety, fight impunity, and protect the public’s right to be informed.