La inseguridad ciudadana y repercusiones socioeconómicas en las familias de la ciudadela San Ramón de Machala, del año 2001/2024

Abstract

Citizen insecurity in the San Ramón de Machala citadel, between 2021 and 2025, has generated significant repercussions on families, affecting both their well-being and their economic situation. Since 2021, Machala has suffered an alarming increase in crime rates, which includes robberies , extortions and homicides. Until August 2025, 644 complaints of extortion were registered, positioning Machala as one of the districts with the most cases in the country. This climate of violence has led many citizens to avoid leaving their homes and has forced numerous businesses to close. earlier than usual in order to protect yourself. The perception of danger has caused a decrease in economic activity, as people limit their movements and avoid areas considered risky due to the situation not only having an impact on the quality of life, but also increasing costs related to private security and the insurances. Many merchants, faced with the constant risk they face, have made the decision to close their stores or even migrate. Youth unemployment has become a critical factor that fuels the insecurity of the lack of job opportunities has created a cycle of hopelessness that can lead some young people to become involved in criminal activities as this is seen in the increase in passport applications, where thousands have chosen to emigrate in search of better living conditions. The testimonies collected reflect that the economic crisis and violence have led many families to consider migration as a viable option.