In a significant development for Belize’s labor landscape, Prime Minister John Briceño has established a comprehensive 2026 agenda through constructive dialogues with the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). The December 15 meeting yielded multiple governmental commitments addressing both labor concerns and broader governance issues.
The administration pledged to advance the Occupational Safety and Health Bill to its second reading during Parliament’s inaugural 2026 session. Additionally, the government will proceed with the Whistle-blowers Bill upon completion of final stakeholder consultations and aims to conclude the national redistricting process by year’s end.
Substantial anti-corruption measures formed another critical component of the agreed agenda. The government committed to advancing Campaign Finance Legislation, enhancing enforcement capabilities under the Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Act, and bolstering the operational capacity of oversight institutions including the Integrity Commission and Ombudsman’s office. An investigation into potential non-disclosure of audited financial statements by statutory bodies will also be initiated.
Regarding international labor standards, both parties agreed to review pending International Labor Organization conventions. The Prime Minister further committed to convene a meeting with utility unions before January 2026 concludes.
Prime Minister Briceño characterized the negotiations as productive, noting that while governmental and union perspectives sometimes differ, both parties engaged in good faith negotiations resulting in meaningful agreements. To maintain this constructive dialogue, the Office of the Prime Minister and NTUCB will institute quarterly meetings commencing March 2026, establishing a formal mechanism for addressing worker concerns proactively.