PRESS RELEASE
LGBTIQ+ Organizations in Quito Denounce Critical Shortage of Antiretroviral Medication at IESS
Quito, Wednesday, January 28, 2026
The organizations Silueta X Association, Es Mi Familia Association, members of the Quito Pink Resistance Coalition, and the Ecuadorian Federation of LGBT Organizations, are raising the alarm about the severe shortage of antiretroviral medication at the Carlos Andrade MarÃn Hospital of the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute (IESS), a situation that is endangering the lives of people living with HIV.
Critical Public Health Situation: We have received numerous complaints from IESS members who have been informed of the lack of availability of antiretroviral medication for several weeks. This situation is severely affecting patients who have maintained continuous treatment for years, compromising the effectiveness of their therapies and jeopardizing their health and quality of life. Antiretroviral treatment regimens require three specific components to maintain an undetectable viral load. Interrupting these treatments not only represents a significant financial burden for families who must seek alternatives in the private sector, but also poses a serious risk of deteriorating health, developing viral resistance, and losing the therapeutic gains achieved.
Violation of constitutional obligations: The right to health is guaranteed in the Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador. The shortage of antiretroviral medication constitutes a direct violation of the fundamental rights of people living with HIV, who have the right to:
- Continuous and timely access to antiretroviral treatment
- Comprehensive healthcare without discrimination
- Special protection as part of priority care groups
Urgent call to the authorities
To the Ministry of Public Health and the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute (IESS):
- Guarantee the immediate supply of antiretroviral medication in all health units
- Implement early warning mechanisms to prevent future shortages
- Ensure the continuity of treatment for all affected individuals
To the Ombudsman’s Office: - Investigate this situation and demand immediate corrective measures
- Guarantee the protection of the rights of affected individuals
To the community and civil society organizations: - Remain vigilant against these human rights violations
- Document similar cases to strengthen the demand for structural changes
Availability for information
The undersigned organizations remain available to provide further information and support affected individuals in their demands of their rights, always guaranteeing the confidentiality and protection of those who report.
Info: info@siluetax.org with copies to info@FederacionLGBT.org and info@ResistenciaRosa.org
