Family Policy Initiatives in Ecuador: A Call for Explicit Family Policies

Abstract

Family policy initiatives in Ecuador have targeted primarily families living in poverty. This chapter discusses some of the major policy initiatives oriented to improve the living conditions of economically disadvantaged families in Ecuador. Even though governments recognize the importance of family policies, existing policies and programs for families living in poverty do not directly focus on family issues. They represent more implicit than explicit family policies. This chapter analyzes some of the issues that may hinder the development, implementation, and evaluation of family policies in Ecuador. Such issues stem from political and economic instability, legislation, changing family demographics, as well as coordination among agencies that develop, implement, and evaluate policies. Challenges are discussed as related to family policies and recommendations to improve existing policy initiatives.