Impacto del Caso SECOYA en la gobernanza ambiental de comunidades indígenas

The SECOYA case has highlighted the tensions between Ecuador's environmental regulations and the sociocultural realities of indigenous communities in the Amazon. These tensions have revealed the difficulties in effectively implementing environmental policies in areas with high socioeconomic vulnerability. Therefore, this study analyzed the legal and environmental implications of the administrative resolution issued in this case, with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of Ecuador's environmental regulations. A qualitative approach was adopted, which included documentary analysis of the relevant legislation, a review of previous studies, and an examination of the administrative procedures and sanctions imposed on the Secoya community. The results showed that, although the Ecuadorian legal framework was applied according to the identified infraction, its implementation faces significant challenges, especially concerning the compliance with sanctions by indigenous communities. Furthermore, the clearing of 173.60 hectares and the imposed sanctions have reflected the tensions between environmental laws and local socioeconomic needs. In conclusion, the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach to the application of environmental laws was emphasized. Such an approach should consider the socioeconomic realities of indigenous communities and promote a system of technical and financial support to facilitate compliance with regulations.