A recently signed two-year agreement between Belize and the United States has ignited widespread debate over transparency, sovereignty, and the future of bilateral relations. The pact, finalized on October 20, 2025, by Belize’s Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca, aims to enhance refugee protections and facilitate safe transfers of third-country nationals seeking asylum in the U.S. However, the exclusion of Guatemalans and the lack of public consultation have raised eyebrows. Critics, including the United Democratic Party (UDP), have questioned the secrecy surrounding the deal, emphasizing its potential impact on Belize’s immigration policies, border security, and taxpayer burden. Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton highlighted the absence of parliamentary debate and full disclosure, calling it a concerning trend under the Briceno administration. While Belize values its longstanding diplomatic ties with the U.S., the opaque nature of this agreement has fueled skepticism about its broader implications for national sovereignty and social infrastructure.