Rafael Correa is an Ecuadorian economist and politician who served as the President of Ecuador from 2007 to 2017. He is known for implementing progressive economic policies that aimed to reduce poverty and improve social welfare. Correa's government focused on increasing public investment and promoting infrastructure development. During his presidency, Correa also emphasized the importance of national sovereignty and sought to reduce foreign influence in Ecuador's economy. His administration was marked by significant economic growth, but it also faced criticism for its handling of media freedom and political dissent.