Belize is preparing to launch its Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on November 25, 2025, amidst a troubling surge in domestic violence incidents. In the past twenty days alone, at least five lives have been lost to gender-based violence, casting a shadow over the recent Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Thea Garcia-Ramirez, Minister of Human Development, has emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing this crisis and ensuring the safety of women and children. Speaking at a press conference, Garcia-Ramirez outlined the campaign’s objectives and called for collective action across all sectors of society. She highlighted the multifaceted nature of gender-based violence, which extends beyond physical and sexual abuse to include financial, emotional, and verbal abuse. The government is also revising the existing Act Against Gender-Based Violence, with plans to engage civil society organizations, stakeholders, and the public in consultations. Garcia-Ramirez urged media outlets to amplify the campaign’s message and encouraged families and communities to recognize the warning signs of abuse. The revised draft of the act will be made available for public review after the sixteen-day campaign, marking a critical step toward legislative reform and societal change.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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What Makes Belize Unique?
Belize is taking a significant step toward enhancing its global image with the launch of its first-ever unified national brand. This ambitious initiative, supported by the Inter-American Development Bank and spearheaded by BELTRAIDE, aims to redefine how Belize is perceived internationally. The 22-week project focuses on attracting investors, fostering trade relationships, and promoting tourism by presenting the country’s unique strengths in a cohesive and compelling manner. Deputy Director of BELTRAIDE, Monique Usher, emphasized the importance of this branding exercise, highlighting its role in consolidating Belize’s identity across various sectors, including tourism, trade, and culture. The initiative involves extensive consultations with both private and public sectors, as well as research and surveys to gather feedback. Key areas of focus include environmental sustainability, which is strongly associated with Belize in both local and international markets. The goal is to create a dynamic and unified brand that effectively communicates Belize’s value proposition to the world.
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Belize’s Gaming Bill Faces Scrutiny Amid Oversight Scandals
Belize’s proposed Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025, aimed at modernizing the nation’s gambling industry by consolidating four outdated laws, is facing intense scrutiny following a series of oversight failures and scandals. The bill, currently under Senate review, promises enhanced regulation but has been overshadowed by the Caribi Bleu Casino case, where illegal activities, including an unauthorized U.S. dollar ATM and questionable permits, went undetected for months. Critics argue that the bill grants excessive power to ministers without addressing systemic oversight gaps. Senators are advocating for mandatory audits, community involvement in licensing, and greater accountability. The bill has been paused for revisions, but the debate continues as stakeholders demand stronger safeguards to prevent future regulatory lapses. The case of Caribi Bleu Casino, whose owner Rima Ray is now imprisoned in the U.S. for fraud and illegal gambling, has exposed significant weaknesses in Belize’s regulatory framework. The Financial Intelligence Unit, Central Bank of Belize, and Gaming Control Board all failed to detect the illegal operations, raising questions about their effectiveness. Senators, including Patrick Faber and Janelle Chanona, have emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the revised legislation. The Senate’s decision to shelve the bill for further review underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to restore public trust in the gaming industry.
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Mandatory Three Hundred Dollars Courses for Motorcyclists
In a significant move to enhance road safety, Belize has announced new regulations requiring all motorcycle riders to complete a mandatory two-week training course. The initiative, set to take effect from January 1, 2026, will cost participants no more than $300. Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh emphasized that this measure is essential to equip riders with the necessary skills to navigate roads safely and reduce accident rates. The training will be conducted at ITVETs (Institutes of Technical and Vocational Education and Training) and other certified institutions. While the initial proposal suggested a six-week course, the government opted for a shorter duration to balance cost and accessibility. Dr. Zabaneh highlighted that this decision was made after thorough discussions within the cabinet, acknowledging the financial implications for riders. The new rule will apply to both existing license holders and new applicants, with a two-year grace period for compliance. This initiative aligns Belize with other jurisdictions that enforce similar safety measures, typically ranging from four to six weeks. The government aims to ensure that all motorcycle operators possess the requisite skills to handle their vehicles safely, ultimately fostering a safer transportation environment.
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Belize Urged to Act as Diabetes Claims Hundreds
On November 14, 2025, Belize joined the global community in observing World Diabetes Day, with a pressing call to action against the escalating diabetes crisis. Diabetes has emerged as the third leading cause of death in Belize, claiming over 200 lives this year alone. Health leaders, including Lynette Valerio, President of the Belize Diabetes Association, emphasized that the time for awareness has passed, and immediate action is now imperative. This year’s theme, ‘Diabetes and Well-being,’ particularly highlights the role of workplaces in managing the disease. Valerio stressed that combating diabetes is not just an individual responsibility but a collective national effort. She urged businesses to implement workplace wellness programs, noting that many employees with diabetes face challenges in managing their condition due to a lack of understanding or support from employers. The association called for greater investment in workplace health initiatives to ensure employees can access medical checkups and medication without hindrance. The message is clear: Belize must act decisively to address this public health emergency.
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Alda Ramos Sweeps Past Barriers to Earn Master’s Degree
Alda Ramos, a name synonymous with resilience and determination, has once again proven that no dream is too big to achieve. In 2024, Ramos captured national attention when she graduated with a bachelor’s degree while working as a janitor at the University of Belize. Fast forward to 2025, and Ramos has added another milestone to her inspiring journey—earning a master’s degree from Galen University. Today, she serves as a Counselor for the Gender-Based Violence Response & Investigation Unit within the Belize Police Department, a role that reflects her unwavering commitment to helping others. Ramos’ story is a testament to the transformative power of education and self-belief. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial strain, health issues, and balancing family responsibilities, she persevered. Her journey began in her thirties when she returned to school to complete her high school education. By the age of forty, she had earned her bachelor’s degree, all while working as a janitor for nearly two decades. Ramos’ dedication to her studies and her community has made her a role model for many. Her story continues to inspire not only her colleagues but also the vulnerable individuals she serves. As Ramos reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who believe in one’s potential. Her remarkable achievements remind us that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
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Minister Usher Rejects the Prime Minister
In a surprising turn of events, Minister Henry Charles Usher has reportedly declined to accept his newly assigned ministerial portfolio, which includes the Ministry of Home Affairs. This position was previously held by his brother, Kareem Musa. According to insider sources from the Cabinet, Minister Usher expressed a strong preference to continue leading the Ministry of Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management. In light of this decision, the Ministry of Home Affairs has been reassigned to Belmopan Area Representative Oscar Mira, who will now oversee this department in addition to his existing responsibilities in National Defence and Border Security. This development marks a significant shift in the Cabinet’s leadership structure, with further updates expected as the situation unfolds.
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Guatemala Issues Guidance on “Correct Use” of National Map Including Belize
In a significant move addressing a long-standing territorial dispute, Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued official guidelines on the ‘correct use’ of the national map, particularly in relation to Belize. The guidelines emphasize the representation of the Adjacency Line, which separates Guatemala from the territory currently administered by Belize, while the dispute remains unresolved at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The ministry mandates that all official maps must include the Adjacency Line, represented by a dotted line, accompanied by a safeguard note stating: ‘Diferendo territorial, insular y marítimo pendiente de resolver’ (‘Territorial, insular, and maritime dispute pending resolution’). This measure underscores the ongoing nature of the dispute and the need for accurate representation.
Furthermore, the guidelines specify the terminology to be used, prohibiting terms such as ‘border,’ ‘limit,’ ‘dividing line,’ ‘border zone,’ and ‘Belizean territory.’ Instead, the ministry instructs the use of ‘Línea de Adyacencia’ (Adjacency Line), ‘Zona de Adyacencia’ (Adjacency Zone), and ‘territorio administrado por Belice’ (territory administered by Belize). These directives aim to maintain clarity and neutrality in official communications.
The issuance of these guidelines reflects Guatemala’s commitment to formalizing its stance on the territorial dispute while awaiting the ICJ’s resolution. The move is expected to influence public and institutional practices, ensuring consistency in how the national map is portrayed.
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Will the UDP Get Its Reset on November 30th?
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is poised to embark on a critical journey of renewal and unity at its upcoming convention on November 30th, 2025. After enduring over a year of internal strife, leadership disputes, and fragmented campaigns, the party is determined to reset its trajectory ahead of the 2027 municipal and 2030 general elections. UDP leader Panton expressed optimism, stating she is ‘very encouraged’ by the support from delegates and emphasizing that the convention will chart a path forward for the party’s unification and rebuilding. The event is expected to endorse a new executive to steer the UDP’s recovery following its fractured performance in the March 12th general elections, where internal divisions led to multiple candidates contesting the same constituencies. However, concerns have emerged over the party’s failure to meet a constitutional requirement to circulate convention documents 21 days in advance. Despite this, Panton remains resolute, asserting the UDP’s readiness to form a united front and serve as a robust opposition to the current administration. Notably, the convention will proceed without Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow, who lost both his constituency and leadership role in the March elections. Panton, if elected as party leader, would make history as the first woman to lead a major political party in Belize.
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Regional Media Unite for “One Love Jamaica” Disaster Relief Mediathon
In a remarkable display of regional solidarity, Caribbean broadcasters are collaborating for the ‘One Love Jamaica’ Mediathon, a live fundraising event aimed at supporting Jamaica’s disaster recovery efforts. Scheduled for November 16th, 2025, from 2–6 p.m. Belize Time, the event will be broadcast across the Caribbean, including on Greater Belize Media in Belize, UWI TV Global, and member stations of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU). Viewers are encouraged to contribute, with all donations channeled through the Barbados Red Cross to aid in critical relief and rebuilding initiatives on the island. Organizers emphasize the event’s purpose as a testament to Caribbean unity, urging the region to rally behind Jamaica under the banner of ‘One Love.’ Major media partners, including CBC TV 8, Starcom Network Inc., Barbados Today, and Nation News, are supporting the broadcast. The mediathon invites Belizeans and the wider Caribbean to participate and demonstrate collective strength in times of adversity.