Belize has taken a significant step forward in data collection with the launch of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), a comprehensive initiative supported by UNICEF. This landmark survey, which involved over 5,000 households, marks the first major update in data for the country in fifteen years. The $1.9 million project, primarily funded by UNICEF, covers 126 indicators across critical areas such as health, education, child protection, and gender equality. Wendy Benavides, a statistician at the Statistical Institute of Belize, highlighted the survey’s innovative inclusion of new topics like foundational learning skills for children aged 7-14, mental health for individuals aged 15-24, reproductive healthcare, child discipline, and attitudes toward domestic violence. The survey employed five distinct questionnaires tailored to different household members, including women aged 15-49, men aged 15-49, and children under 5 and 5-17, with mothers or caregivers responding on behalf of the children. For the first time, children were directly involved in activities measuring reading and arithmetic skills, following parental consent. This extensive data collection aims to provide Belize with robust insights to inform policy-making and track progress in key societal areas.