In a referendum on Sunday, April 21, the citizens of Ecuador emphatically voted to keep Article 422 of the country’s 2008 constitution, which prevents Ecuador from using international arbitration to settle disputes between Ecuador and foreign investors or private individuals in international treaties or instruments. The outcome of the referendum demonstrates strong public support for Ecuador’s cautious and balanced approach to ISDS. The citizens of Ecuador have signalled to policy-makers in the country and the region that ISDS is not a necessity. Read more about the referendum here.