A new humanitarian project funded by South Korea and implemented by the International Organization for Migration is set to support thousands of migrants and vulnerable communities in border areas of Ecuador.
The initiative will assist more than 6,000 migrants and residents living in key border regions near Peru and Colombia. These areas have become major transit points for people on the move, many of whom face serious challenges accessing basic services.
According to data from IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix, about 550 vulnerable migrants pass daily through border crossings such as Huaquillas, Lago Agrio, and Tulcán. Many of them struggle to find food, clean water, shelter, healthcare, and legal support.
To respond to these needs, the project will provide temporary accommodation, food supplies, and primary healthcare services. It will also include mental health and psychosocial support, as well as the distribution of hygiene kits, maternity supplies, and baby care items. Legal assistance and protection services will also be offered to help migrants better understand their rights and access support systems.
Beyond direct aid, the programme will also focus on strengthening local communities. Shelters and safe spaces in border regions will be improved to better support both migrants and host populations. Authorities will also use data collected through the Displacement Tracking Matrix to guide policies and improve migration management.
The project also aims to promote peaceful coexistence between migrants and host communities. By encouraging local participation, it seeks to reduce tensions, prevent discrimination, and ensure that support reaches everyone in need.
This effort is part of South Korea’s broader humanitarian support in Ecuador, including initiatives focused on women’s protection and livelihoods. It also reflects continued international efforts to respond to the growing number of migrants and refugees, particularly those fleeing crises in neighboring countries and moving across the region in search of safety and better opportunities.