Social insecurity in the activity of informal commerce. Mariscal Sucre neighborhood. Canton La Libertad

Abstract

Introduction: Social insecurity in Ecuador, exacerbated by drug trafficking, has deteriorated community cohesion and economic stability, especially in sectors such as informal commerce. This phenomenon, which includes crimes such as robbery and extortion, has led to a significant reduction in investment and economic activity in affected areas, such as the province of Santa Elena. At the national level, informal employment constitutes 52.5% of the employed population, reflecting profound challenges in the generation of adequate employment and economic sustainability. Objective: to determine from the discourse of informal traders in the Mariscal Sucre neighborhood, their perspective on social insecurity, as well as the impact on informal commerce in the canton of La Libertad, during 2024. Materials and methods: a qualitative approach was used to explore in depth the experiences and perceptions related to informal commerce and social insecurity, using a phenomenological method to understand these experiences from the perspective of the participants. A purposive sample of informal traders in the Mariscal Sucre neighborhood was selected, and data were collected through structured interviews and focus groups. Discussion: Social insecurity in the Mariscal Sucre neighborhood significantly affects informal commerce and socioeconomic stability, manifesting itself in robberies, assaults and extortions. Conclusions: The high vulnerability created by security problems limits the economic growth of informal traders. It is crucial to implement more effective and organized policies, both in security and in the socioeconomic sphere, to improve living conditions and foster economic development in the region.