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In Ecuador, even the basics of life become a battle
An unexpected power cut in Quito left Natalia Peñaherrera checking whether her grandmother’s oxygen equipment had enough battery to keep her breathing. Her experience reflects a wider uncertainty in Ecuador, where people face energy shortages, insecurity and public services that often fail to meet basic needs.
The article describes blackouts, emergency measures and industries being disconnected for up to three days a week to conserve water for hydroelectric plants. Xavier Macías has spent two years trying to resolve a vehicle-registration case after his number plate was cloned. A 2026 regional survey found just 16% of Ecuadorians satisfied with public hospitals and 11% with the justice system; only 19% said the state had done something for them or their families in the past three years, down from 50% in 2011.
In short
- A Quito blackout threatened the backup power for a woman’s grandmother’s oxygen machine.
- Ecuadorians report low satisfaction with hospitals and the justice system.
- Residents describe prolonged battles with basic public services.