Between pessimism and mistrust: ecuadorian attitudes in the 2020 coronavirus pandemic

Abstract

In February 2021, Ecuadorians will have to face the most fragmented presidential elections of their history. Seventeen presidential contenders are trying to reach out to a very disappointed and distant electorate. Since the arrival of COVID-19 to the country, public opinion has been very critical toward the government but also toward representatives on the National Assembly and politicians in general. Corruption scandals, public health system incapacity to deal with the disease, political opportunist actions and declarations of the opposition, and increasing levels of unemployment and economic instability have increased citizen’s distrust and pessimism about the future. This chapter describes the evolution of Ecuadorian attitudes toward the government, politicians, presidential candidates, and elections amidst the coronavirus pandemic.