QUITO: In a landmark demonstration of climate democracy, Ecuadorians have spoken out to halt oil drilling activities within the Amazon reserve. The outcome of a historic referendum, revealed on Monday, reflects a decisive “Yes” vote to stop oil exploitation in the Yasuni National Park. This biodiverse region stands as one of the world’s most ecologically rich biospheres.
With 98 percent of the votes tallied by the election body, the “Yes” vote secured a resounding victory with 59 percent support. This outcome marks a significant step forward in the global effort to address environmental concerns through democratic decision-making.
The referendum centered around the fate of “block 43,” an oil block within Yasuni National Park that contributes 12 percent of Ecuador’s daily oil production, amounting to 466,000 barrels per day. The Ecuadoran people’s call for a referendum was answered in May when the nation’s highest court granted authorization for the vote.
Significance of Stopping Oil Drilling in Yasuni National Park
The importance of Yasuni National Park extends beyond its contribution to oil production. The reserve harbors a stunning array of plant and animal species and serves as a habitat for three uncontacted Indigenous populations: the Waorani, Kichwa, and the Tagaeri, Taromenane, and Dugakaeri tribes. The decision to halt oil drilling within the reserve is expected to play a critical role in safeguarding both the environment and the livelihoods of these Indigenous communities.
While the decision is hailed as an environmental victory, it comes with financial considerations. The government, under outgoing President Guillermo Lasso, has projected a potential loss of $16 billion over the next two decades if oil drilling is discontinued. Nonetheless, the referendum reflects a commitment to prioritizing the preservation of the natural world and protecting the cultural integrity of the Indigenous populations who inhabit it.
The Yasuni National Park holds a special place in Ecuador’s natural and cultural landscape, and this referendum outcome marks a significant step toward harmonizing environmental sustainability and Indigenous rights.
