The Government of Germany has pledged EUR 25 million to a new initiative in Ecuador aimed at supporting migrants, returnees, and host communities, with a particular focus on women and youth. Implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the project seeks to enhance safety, quality of life, and socioeconomic development across the country.
The four-year Opportunities project, funded through the German Development Bank (KfW) and led by Ecuador’s Vice Ministry of Human Mobility, focuses on three main areas: creating and revitalizing safe public spaces, expanding employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and promoting initiatives that strengthen coexistence, dignity, and overall well-being.
Catalina Devandas, IOM DG Representative and Senior Director of Partnerships, highlighted that the project addresses medium- and long-term development needs, ensuring that women and youth—often excluded from decision-making—can exercise their rights, access opportunities, and contribute to building inclusive communities. Labor inclusion will be advanced primarily through the IOM Ecuador Enterprise Development Fund, which provides non-reimbursable grants to small and medium-sized enterprises, generating employment and improving employability.
Frank Weiler, Head of the Sustainable Mobility and Social Development Division at KfW, emphasized Germany’s commitment to Ecuador, noting that the initiative is designed to improve quality of life, foster economic autonomy, and drive sustainable local development. Empowering women and youth to take on leadership roles is central to the project, supporting social cohesion and helping prevent gender-based violence through awareness campaigns and community-strengthening activities.
The project forms part of the broader Financial Cooperation between Germany and Ecuador, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW, under the “Peace and Social Cohesion” cluster of German Cooperation in Ecuador.
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