标签： Belize

The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence commences on November 25, 2025, with a sharp focus on the escalating issue of digital violence against women and girls. This year’s campaign, themed ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,’ underscores the urgent need to address online harassment, threats, and abuse. The initiative, spearheaded by the United Nations, runs until December 10, coinciding with International Human Rights Day.

In Belize, gender-based violence remains a pressing concern. Recent data from the Belize Crime Observatory reveals that 1,954 domestic violence cases were reported by October 2024, with 1,339 involving intimate partners. Women accounted for 75% of victims, and 67% of cases involved current or former partners. Tragically, nine femicide cases were recorded, predominantly affecting women aged 25 to 39.

The nation has been shaken by several high-profile incidents, including the murder of a mother of four found in a garbage drum, a deadly home invasion in Belize City that claimed the life of Delecia Flowers and injured her teenage daughter, and the horrific deaths of Angelita Magana and her two children, who were burned to death by her ex-common-law husband in San Felipe Village.

Eleanor Murillo, Executive Director of the National Women’s Commission, emphasized the critical role of community involvement in combating violence. ‘Advocacy comes from everybody,’ she stated. ‘If you witness violence, call 911 immediately. Do not record and share it on social media. Everyone must speak up to make a difference.’

Globally, one in three women experiences gender-based violence, with digital platforms increasingly becoming hotspots for abuse. The UN is urging governments, tech companies, donors, and individuals to take decisive action to safeguard women online, eliminate harmful content, and provide robust support for survivors.

The Dangriga Sub Treasury Building has been targeted by burglars for the third time in just two years, sparking widespread concern among local residents and authorities. The latest incident was discovered on the morning of November 21, 2025, when staff arrived to find the office thoroughly ransacked and a safe containing cash stolen. Located on St. Vincent Street, the building has once again become a crime scene, with investigators and forensic teams meticulously searching for evidence. This marks the third such burglary since March 2023, when thieves stole $40,000. In August 2024, burglars cut the power supply before executing another break-in. Despite these repeated incidents, no arrests have been made, leaving authorities under mounting pressure to address the security lapses. Police are urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity overnight or early that morning to come forward with information.

In a significant development in Belize, former UDP senator Macario Coy has been formally charged with sexual assault. The 39-year-old, who previously served in the political arena, was accused by a 36-year-old teacher of assaulting her on November 4, 2025. Following the allegations, Coy voluntarily surrendered to the Punta Gorda Police on November 21, accompanied by his legal counsel. After being charged, he was brought before the court, where bail was set at $3,000. The case has been scheduled for further proceedings on January 20, 2026. Authorities have assured the public that they will continue to monitor and report on the case as it progresses. This incident has sparked widespread attention and raised concerns about accountability and justice in the region.

In a significant move to bolster domestic violence protections, the Belizean government has introduced two pivotal bills aimed at providing survivors with quicker access to safety. The Justices of the Peace (Amendment) Bill and the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill empower specially trained Senior Justices of the Peace (JPs) to issue 72-hour emergency protection orders during times when courts are closed, such as nights, weekends, and holidays. Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez, who presented the bills during a recent House meeting, emphasized that these changes serve as a ‘life-saving bridge between danger and safety.’ The reforms also include stringent vetting processes for JPs, the establishment of private spaces at police stations for victims, and enhanced oversight mechanisms. These measures are part of Belize’s National Gender-Based Violence Action Plan, which also envisions a one-stop support center, expanded police training, and a national hotline. Public consultations on a modernized Domestic Violence Bill are set to commence during the Sixteen Days of Activism, with the new law expected to be enacted in 2026. Minister Garcia-Ramirez highlighted the critical need for these amendments, noting that victims often face significant barriers in obtaining protective orders during emergencies or when courts are inaccessible. The proposed changes are the result of collaborative efforts among various ministries and organizations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing domestic violence.

In a rare and unsettling case of child cruelty in Belize, a father has narrowly avoided a 15-year prison sentence for leaving his two-year-old child home alone while he went out drinking. Michael Cowo, the accused, was instead sentenced to three years of probation by Justice Nigel Pilgrim, who emphasized the gravity of the offense but opted for leniency based on Cowo’s clean criminal record, genuine remorse, and ongoing efforts to overcome alcohol addiction. The child was discovered crying in the street, prompting public outrage and concern. Justice Pilgrim warned Cowo that any violation of the probation terms—including mandatory sobriety, counseling, and adherence to strict guidelines—would result in immediate imprisonment. The decision has sparked debate, with some questioning whether the punishment adequately reflects the severity of the crime. Cowo now walks free but remains under close supervision, with his future hanging in the balance.

In a significant ruling on November 21, 2025, the General Legal Council has suspended Senior Counsel Hubert Elrington from practicing law for six months due to grave professional misconduct. The Council found Elrington guilty of accepting $6,000 from a client to file a legal claim against a bank, a case he never pursued. Additionally, he failed to keep the client informed and reneged on a prior commitment to refund the money. The Council dismissed his justifications as insufficient. Alongside the suspension, Elrington is mandated to repay the $6,000 in full, with the suspension potentially extended if he fails to comply. The Council emphasized that this decision aims to uphold public confidence in the legal profession. Elrington, a lawyer with 50 years of experience, now faces one of the most severe penalties short of disbarment.