The adoption of children and adolescents in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: This research analyzes the adoption of children and adolescents in Ecuador, focusing on its legal regulation, administrative processes, and social challenges. Materials and methods: A qualitative methodology with a legal hermeneutic approach was employed, using deductive and analytical-synthetic methods, along with documentary review techniques of laws, judicial rulings, academic studies, and official statistics to interpret the scope of the regulations and evaluate their practical application. Results: The findings show that, although the Code for Children and Adolescents and the Constitution establish a robust regulatory framework that prioritizes the best interests of the child and defines rigorous requirements for adoptive parents, significant difficulties persist in procedural efficiency, the separation of siblings during the process, and insufficient attention to children with disabilities. Discussion: The disconnect between the law and its practical implementation is highlighted, noting that ambiguity in criteria such as the "suitability" of adoptive parents and weaknesses in post-adoption follow-up generate vulnerabilities. Conclusions: Despite regulatory advances, it is necessary to implement legal reforms and strengthen institutions to optimize adoption processes, guaranteeing continuous psychosocial support, respect for cultural identity, and effective harmonization with international conventions on transnational adoption.