Until recently, Ecuador was a font of peace and prosperity compared to its neighbors. “Pink tide” president Rafael Correa (2007–2017) introduced progressive reforms that brought significant material improvements to the South American nation’s majorities. Out-migration fell, and many who had left the country returned to enjoy the economic boom.

Those gains have since been reversed. Renewed political instability and violence are shaking the country, and austerity is pummeling its economy.

Amid a spiraling crisis, tens of thousands of Ecuadorians have made the harrowing journey to the US southern border. They are refugees of right-wing rule, fleeing a dramatic downturn instigated by Correa’s conservative successors.