Various labor organizations in Ecuador are organizing a march in Quito on March 13 to express their opposition to a recent ministerial agreement that alters the distribution of work hours. The march is scheduled to commence at 15:30 from the Caja del Seguro towards the historical center of the city. Workers' representatives from the Frente Unitario de Trabajadores (FUT) have articulated their grievances over the agreement, which permits extending the workday to ten hours while upholding a total of 40 hours per week.

The controversial Ministerial Agreement MDT-2026-059, which came into effect on March 10, 2026, has sparked significant discontent among workers who believe it undermines their rights. Edwin Bedoya, the FUT president, pointed out that although the legislation allows for negotiation between employees and employers regarding working hours, in reality, workers do not possess equal negotiating power. This discrepancy raises concerns about fair treatment and the potential for exploitation under the new regulations.

As the planned march draws near, the FUT and other labor groups are rallying support to challenge the agreement, highlighting the broader implications for workers' rights and labor conditions in Ecuador. This demonstration underscores the ongoing struggle for equitable labor practices and the importance of collective action in defending workers' interests against policies perceived to favor employers. The outcomes of this protest may influence future labor legislation and the relationship between workers and employers in the country.