Supporting the local indigenous population in demanding the implementation of court orders in view of the damage caused by oil production

About this project

From 1964 to 1993, the multinational oil company Texaco (since merged with Cevron) led a consortium with Petroecuador to exploit the oil fields in Ecuador. During this time, the oil was extracted using very environmentally damaging techniques that were outdated compared to the usual exploitation techniques of that time and contaminated almost half a million hectares of land and rivers. This environmental disaster had and continues to have a direct impact on the health, culture and territory of thousands of inhabitants and has led to the displacement and disappearance of indigenous communities and an increase in childhood cancers, miscarriages and leukaemia. Despite a legally binding judgement against the oil company, the Ecuadorian justice system has proven incapable of enforcing the judgement. The project works with various groups for justice and reparation as well as for the implementation of public protection measures for human, environmental and natural rights. To achieve this, technical teams are formed, managers are trained, lawsuits against the effects of oil extraction are pursued, excursions to the areas are organised and public relations work is carried out.

Goals

Sustainable Development Goals this project works towards

• 1No Poverty
• 10Reduced Inequalities
• 12Responsible Consumption and Production
• 14Life Below Water
• 15Life on Land
• 16Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Published by

Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ) · Government

Countries

Ecuador

Sectors

Democratic participation and civil society

Focus

Gender equality · Also contributesEnvironment · Main focusGood governance · Main focusBiodiversity · Main focus

Places

Quito

Published by Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ) to the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI), last updated 30 Sept 2026 and imported automatically. IATI identifier: DE-1-202530376.

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