Ecuadorian law and international child protection standards provide robust privacy protections for all children in orphanages. It is illegal to take or share photos or videos of these children, regardless of intent or consent.

Key Reasons for This Policy:

Protecting Children’s Privacy and Safety:

Many children in orphanages are in vulnerable situations, including some who have been removed from unsafe environments. Publishing their images could expose them to risks and violate their right to privacy.

• Código de la Niñez y Adolescencia, Art. 52 (Ecuadorian Child and Adolescent Code)

• Ecuadorian Constitution, Art. 66 (19)

Complying with Ecuadorian Law:

National laws, including the Personal Data Protection Organic Law (2021), prohibit the use and dissemination of images of children in institutional care without explicit legal authorization. Violations may result in legal prosecution by Ecuadorian authorities.

Preventing Digital Exploitation:

Creating a digital footprint can have unforeseen negative consequences for children, now and in the future.

• UNICEF Guidance on Children’s Online Privacy

Honoring Confidentiality:

In some cases, children’s locations must remain confidential for their ongoing security and protection.

• UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 16