Ecuador

Digital Security Bill archived by National Assembly: The proposed Digital Security Bill, which aimed to create a National Security System to counteract digital security threats, was shelved by the National Assembly due to concerns about governance and imprecise definitions.

Superintendence of Data Protection established without full framework: Fabrizio Peralta Díaz assumed the role of Superintendent of Data Protection, but the body was established without an institutional framework or operating budget, hindering its immediate effectiveness.

Fabrizio Peralta Díaz appointed first Superintendent of Data Protection: Fabrizio Peralta Díaz was appointed as the first superintendent of data protection, a key step in the implementation of the Organic Law on Personal Data Protection.

Two-year transition period for Data Protection Law compliance passed: The two-year transition period for establishing compliance with the Organic Law on Personal Data Protection passed, but implementation faced delays.

Organic Law to Reform Various Legal Bodies for the Strengthening of Institutional Capacities and Comprehensive Security enacted: This law established potentially concerning online surveillance capacities, allowing prosecutors to authorize 'undercover computer agents' and order service providers to retain subscriber and traffic data.

Additional reforms to the Organic Law of Communication (LOC): Further reforms to the LOC affirmed that the state will not regulate media content, explicitly protected freedom of expression on the internet, and outlined a Mechanism for the Protection of Journalists.

Observatory established to monitor Data Protection Law implementation: Academics and representatives from digital rights, free expression, and data privacy organizations established an observatory to monitor the implementation of the Organic Law on Personal Data Protection.

Organic Law on Personal Data Protection approved by National Assembly: The National Assembly approved the Organic Law on Personal Data Protection, creating an independent body for data protection, the Superintendence for the Protection of Personal Data.

Law to Prevent and Combat Digital Sexual Violence and Strengthen the Fight Against Computer Crimes passed: The National Assembly passed this bill, which expanded COIP Article 179 (disclosure of secrecy) and Article 396 (criminal defamation) to include digital content, messages, and other personal content shared without consent.

Proposal for a cybersecurity protection law announced: Following a data leak, the Minister of Telecommunications announced that a bill for data protection would be presented to the National Assembly.

Reforms to the Organic Law of Communication (LOC): Significant reforms to the LOC were enacted, including the elimination of the Superintendence of Information and Communications (SUPERCOM), the mandatory media code of conduct, and the prohibition on 'media lynching.' Digital media and content providers' liability for user comments was removed.

Penal code changes regarding online speech: Penal code changes eliminated criminal charges for insult but retained them for slander and libel, affecting online speech.

Código Orgánico Integral Penal (COIP) becomes effective: The Organic Comprehensive Criminal Code entered into force, criminalizing various offenses including child pornography and sexual exploitation of children and adolescents.

Ley Orgánica de Comunicación (LOC) enacted: The Organic Law of Communication was enacted, aiming to regulate communication rights and media content.

Código de la Niñez y Adolescencia (CNA) becomes effective: The Children and Adolescents Code (Ley No. 2002-100) entered into force, establishing comprehensive protection for children and adolescents, including rights related to information and protection against harmful content.