Politics and Policies of Food Sovereignty in Ecuador: New Directions or Broken Promises?

Abstract

The most recent constitution of Ecuador was signed into law in September 2008 and ushered in a new vision for Ecuadorian society under a series of policy promises aimed at transforming the rural development process in the country. Under this banner, Chapter 3 of the constitution states that: “food sovereignty is a strategic objective and an obligation of the state that persons, communities, peoples and nations achieve self-sufficiency with respect to healthy and culturally appropriate food on a permanent basis” (Asamblea Nacional, 2008). The 2008 constitution is a progressive force that establishes the state’s obligation to fulfill the rights of citizens with regards to food security. Moreover, the constitution distinctly states “food sovereignty” as the specific objective of the government. (…)