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In a context of intense international cooperation, the case of Ecuador sheds the light on the significance of politico institutional dimensions in implementing a decentralized risk management national system. Important tensions and conflicts can be seen as key obstacles in both national policy and international cooperation sector. The relation between the State and local powers, the paradox between sovereignty and a necessary cooperation, the contradiction between the diversity of cooperation projects and the integration of a national policy, or the tacit tension between strengthening preparedness and improving planning or managing territories are among those obstacles. Because of funding, the skills available, or the kind of institutional changes at stake, it is hard to solve the tensions pointed out. Thus, prior to risk and disaster issues, challenges dealing with public domain, the role of the State or its authority, appear to be crucial in risk agenda.