Analysis of the NATIONAL MARITIME Strategy of Ecuador

Abstract

Purpose: This article is to analyze the maritime strategy of Ecuador from the perspective of national security theory. It also applies national security theory for academic support to Ecuador s maritime policy, providing a complete understanding and critical analysis of Ecuador s maritime strategy. Method: In this study, three methods were used to analyze and develop Ecuador s maritime strategy: realism, liberalism and constructivism. First, the realistic approach examines, analyzes, and interprets the relationship between past facts, present facts, and future assumptions in relation to Ecuador s maritime strategy. Second, the liberal approach is to establish the relationship, differences, and awareness of information on the national security and defense axes, including the nuclear issue. Third, the constructive approach reviews empirically in order to recognize the characteristics of Ecuador s maritime strategy. Results: The advantage of using national security theory is the ability to identify its causes and understand the intentions of actors in complex scenarios of Ecuador s national maritime strategy. It also proposes possible solutions and formulates measures to promote better implementation of national maritime and coastal policies. Therefore, this theoretical and practical study of scenario analysis will provide a link between academic support and national maritime strategies. Conclusion: Ecuador is a maritime country with the activities that people perform in marine space and the resources the sea provides. The results of this study are vital important to promote defense, growth and development for Ecuador s national maritime interests.