Legal claims and access to justice

All survivors of gender-based violence in Ecuador regardless of their migration status have the right to file a report with the competent authorities, as well as to receive free legal support.

To file a report, consider the following:

  1. If you were a victim of any type of gender-based violence and less than 24 hours have passed since the incident: you must report at the nearest Flagrancy Prosecutor’s Office (Fiscalía de Flagrancias) to your place of residence. Check this link: Fiscalía General del Estado | Directorio de fiscalías provinciales.  
  2. In general, if you want to report any type of violence you experienced, we recommend reviewing the official protection pathways available at this link  https://www.gob.ec/mmdh

There are no specific requirements to file a report. If possible, bring your identity document. To file a report, you do not need a lawyer, and the process is completely FREE.

The Public Defender’s Office also provides free legal assistance for survivors of violence. See this link to review the service points: SERVICE POINTS | Public Defender’s Office of Ecuador