Belize's Syrian Refugee Policy: Open Or Closed?

Belize is a Central American country with a rich history of immigration and ethnic diversity. The country has welcomed refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from neighbouring countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua, who have historically fled wars, crimes, and gang violence. While Belize has a small population of around 420,000, it is one of Central America's main immigrant-receiving countries, contributing to its diverse culture and society.

In recent years, Belize has also received Syrian refugees, marking one of the most recent migration waves to the country. Syrians have sought refuge in Belize, along with other countries like Jamaica and Turkey, to escape religious persecution, political unrest, and economic challenges in their home country.

Belize's response to the refugee situation has been a mix of challenges and opportunities. The country joined the Regional Integrated Framework for Protection and Solutions (RIFPS) in 2017 to address the influx of refugees and asylum seekers. However, the lack of formal refugee camps and established asylum protocols has posed difficulties.

Belize's refugee laws, as outlined in the Belize Refugees Act Chapter 165, provide rights and freedoms to refugees and asylum seekers, including protection from expulsion and access to public health, education, and legal services. The country's ethnic diversity, shaped by its history of immigration, has resulted in a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and races, making it a unique society in Central America.

Belize's history of taking in refugees

Belize has a long history of taking in refugees. In the 1970s and 1980s, people from El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua fled their countries to escape various conflicts. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, intervened and set up refugee camps, which eventually became towns in Belize, such as Valle de la Paz and Armenia. After the conflicts in their countries of origin ended, the Belizean government gave refugees the option to return home or acquire Belizean nationality. Most of the refugee population decided to stay.

In 2009, Belize started receiving asylum applications again. In 2015, the situation of violence in El Salvador worsened, leading to the displacement of thousands of people. Gangs exerted strong territorial control, and extortion, restrictions on mobility, kidnapping, and violence were the main factors forcing people to seek asylum in Belize. Similar issues of gang violence and insecurity exist in Honduras and Nicaragua, also causing people to flee these countries.

Belize has taken steps to improve its response to the refugee situation. In October 2017, the country joined the Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework (MIRPS), working with other Central American countries and Mexico to collaborate on a joint response to forced displacement in the region. Belize has committed to a comprehensive refugee response, improving standard operating procedures for identification, reception, and referral of refugees, and upgrading the quality of refugee status determination processes.

Belize's Refugee Act, Chapter 165 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, treats all asylum seekers as potential refugees and grants them certain rights and freedoms. These include the right not to be expelled or returned to their country of origin, the right to remain and move freely in the country during the asylum application process, and the right to access public health, education, and legal services. Persons with refugee status can work legally in the country and have the right to family reunification and personal identification documents.

In 2022, 4,130 refugees and asylum seekers were registered in Belize, mainly from El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.

The process of applying for refugee status in Belize

Belize is one of Central America's three main immigrant-receiving countries. The country has a rich ethnic and cultural diversity, and its diaspora contributes to the development of families and the national well-being. In 2022, 4,130 refugees and asylum seekers were registered in Belize, mainly from El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.

Belize's Refugee Act, Chapter 165 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, does not recognize legal asylum status and treats all asylum seekers as potential refugees. The country's legislation recognizes the rights and freedoms of refugees and asylum seekers in the national legal system and international human rights instruments. These rights include the right not to be expelled or returned to their country of origin, the right to remain and move freely in the country while the asylum application is being processed, and the right to access public health, education, and legal services.

• A person wishing to apply for refugee status must be physically present in Belize. They can present themselves directly to the Refugees Department in Belmopan, to an immigration officer at any entry point, or to a police officer at a checkpoint, who will refer them to the Refugees Department.
• The application must be made in person at the Refugees Department.
• The following documents may be presented to the Refugees Department:
• Identification (passport, nationality identification card, or other photo identification)
• Evidence to support the claim for refugee status
• Refugee Status Application Form
• The Refugee Eligibility Committee will review the applications for refugee status.
• If granted refugee status, individuals can work legally in the country, have the right to family reunification, receive a personal identification document, and have rights equivalent to permanent residents in Belize.
• The Government of Belize has also launched the Amnesty Programme 2022, which offers permanent residency as a pathway to citizenship after five years for those who meet specific requirements.

The impact of Syrian refugees on Belize's culture and society

Belize is a melting pot of cultures, with a long history of welcoming different ethnic groups. Syrians, alongside East Indians and Lebanese people, are among the most recent immigrant groups to settle in the country. While they form a small minority, their cultural impact is notable.

The earliest Syrian settlements in Belize date back to the early 1900s. Syrians, alongside the Lebanese, form the Middle Eastern community in the country, comprising 0.2% of the population. They are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, establishing businesses and sharing Arab traditions and cuisine.

Belize has a history of receiving refugees, mainly from Central American countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. The country has taken steps to improve its response to the refugee crisis, joining regional initiatives like the Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework (MIRPS). However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has created obstacles to progress.

Belize's Refugee Act does not recognize legal asylum status but treats all asylum seekers as potential refugees, offering them protection and access to services. The country's small population and diverse cultural landscape have resulted in a unique blend of cultures, with each group maintaining its distinct identity.

The Syrian refugees in Belize have likely contributed to the country's cultural richness, bringing their traditions, cuisine, and customs. They add to the vibrant tapestry of Belizean society, which includes a multitude of ethnic groups such as Mestizos, Creoles, Mayas, Garifuna, East Indians, Mennonites, and Asians.

Belize's response to the Syrian refugee crisis, alongside its history of receiving refugees from neighboring countries, showcases its commitment to providing refuge and supporting those seeking safety from persecution, political unrest, and economic hardships.

The challenges faced by Syrian refugees in Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of around 420,000 people. It has a rich ethnic and cultural diversity, with a large diaspora contributing to the development of families and the country's well-being. Belize is both an emigrant-sending and an immigrant-receiving country, with a long history of taking in refugees from neighbouring countries.

A History of Receiving Refugees

Belize has historically received refugees from neighbouring countries, particularly those fleeing civil wars and conflicts in the 1970s and 1980s. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) set up refugee camps, which later became towns in Belize, such as Valle de la Paz and Armenia. After the conflicts, the Belizean government offered refugees the option to return to their home countries or acquire Belizean nationality, and most chose to stay.

Recent Influx of Refugees

Since 2009, Belize has once again started receiving asylum applications. The situation of violence and gang control in countries like El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua has led to the displacement of thousands of people, who seek safety in Belize.

Challenges Faced by Syrian Refugees

When Syrian refugees arrived in Belize, the country was not adequately prepared economically or politically to receive them. There were no formal refugee camps or established asylum protocols in place.

Lack of Formal Refugee Camps and Asylum Protocols

The absence of formal refugee camps and established asylum protocols meant that Syrian refugees had to navigate an uncertain and challenging path towards resettlement and integration.

Language Barrier

Additionally, Syrian refugees may face a language barrier, as English is the official language in Belize, and Spanish, Creole, and indigenous Mayan languages are also widely spoken. This can make accessing information, services, and support particularly difficult.

Difficulty in Obtaining Refugee Status

Obtaining refugee status in Belize can be challenging, and the process is often lengthy and complex. The Refugee Department, which handles refugee applications, has been criticised for its inefficiency and lack of action. There is also a 14-day rule, which requires individuals to apply for refugee status within 14 days of entering the country, further complicating the process for many refugees.

Discrimination and Social Tensions

Syrian refugees may also face discrimination and social tensions, particularly in communities with a strong presence of other refugee groups or recent immigrants. There are concerns about the potential for gang activity and violence, which can create an unwelcoming environment for Syrian refugees.

Limited Economic Opportunities

Belize's economy is largely dependent on tourism and agriculture, and it suffered significant impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This may result in limited economic opportunities for Syrian refugees, making it challenging for them to find stable employment and support themselves and their families.

In conclusion, while Belize has a history of taking in refugees and offers legal recognition and protection to refugees and asylum seekers, Syrian refugees in the country face various challenges. These include a lack of infrastructure, language barriers, complex asylum procedures, discrimination, and limited economic opportunities. These issues highlight the need for continued efforts to improve the integration and support systems for Syrian refugees in Belize.

International support for Syrian refugees in Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America with a population of around 420,000. It is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history going back to Mayan settlements between 350 and 400 BC. The country has experienced an influx of people from across the globe, including Indians and Middle Easterners. Among these groups are Syrians, who have been migrating to Belize since the early 1900s to escape religious persecution, political unrest, and economic hardship in their home country.

Belize has a long history of welcoming refugees and asylum seekers, and this is reflected in its legislation and policies. The country is committed to providing international protection and assistance to those in need. Here is an overview of the international support available for Syrian refugees in Belize:

Legal Framework and Government Initiatives

Belize's Refugee Act, Chapter 165 of the Substantive Laws, recognises the rights and freedoms of refugees and asylum seekers. This legislation is in line with the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. It guarantees the fundamental rights of refugees and asylum seekers, including protection from expulsion or sanctions for irregular entry, freedom of movement, and access to public health, education, and legal services. Additionally, the government has established a dedicated Refugees Department to manage asylum applications and provide support to refugees.

In 2017, the Belizean government joined the Regional Integrated Framework for Protection and Solutions (RIFPS) to address the increasing number of asylum applications. This demonstrates their commitment to collaborating with regional partners to manage refugee situations effectively.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

Several NGOs play a crucial role in supporting Syrian refugees in Belize. These organisations provide essential assistance and services, often in partnership with the government:

• UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees): UNHCR has a resource centre near the western border that provides information and support to new arrivals. In collaboration with the Belizean government and other NGOs, they offer essential services such as shelter, clothing, food, counselling, and assistance with legal documents.
• Help for Progress: This NGO assists asylum seekers financially and provides them with crucial information about administrative and documentation requirements. They also work closely with the government to document citizens and establish secure passport issuance systems.
• Humana People to People: This organisation has several projects targeting the migrant community, including the 'Refugees and Asylum Seekers' project. This project aims to enhance access to essential services, information, opportunities, and basic needs for asylum seekers in Bella Vista, San Isidro, and Trio Villages in the Toledo District.
• Human Rights Commission of Belize: This commission works with immigrants, refugees, and vulnerable populations to promote education and uphold human rights in the country.
• Jesuit Refugee Service: Through their St. Martin de Porres and St. Peter Claver Parish, they provide food assistance to refugees and migrants in need. They also offer courses to parents to help them build a sense of community within their families.

International Cooperation and Agreements

Belize is an active participant in regional and international agreements aimed at protecting refugees and asylum seekers. Here are some key examples:

• The Global Compact on Refugees: Belize is committed to implementing the Global Compact on Refugees and has developed a National Action Plan to address the refugee situation effectively.
• The Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework (MIRPS): Belize is one of seven countries in Central America and Mexico that have joined this regional initiative. MIRPS aims to collaborate and develop joint responses to forced displacement in the region, with support from the Organisation of American States (OAS) and UNHCR.
• The Regional Safe Spaces Network: Belize is part of this cross-border protection network, which provides safe spaces and assistance for refugees and asylum seekers.

In conclusion, Belize has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Syrian refugees through its legislation, government initiatives, and collaboration with international organisations and NGOs. While there may be challenges along the way, the country's efforts reflect a willingness to provide protection and assistance to those seeking refuge within its borders.

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