Belize: A Failing State?

Belize is a small country in Central America with a rich history and diverse culture. It is the only country in Central America with English as its official language and has a strong tourism industry, largely due to its lengthy coral reef system and biodiversity. However, Belize has struggled with violent crime, gang activity, and drug trafficking, and has been labelled a major money laundering country by the US Department of State. It also faces challenges such as a heavy foreign debt burden, high unemployment, and one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates in Central America.

Belize has a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a bicameral National Assembly. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981, though it still recognises King Charles III as its monarch and head of state. Belize's independence was delayed due to territorial disputes with Guatemala, which remain ongoing.

Belize's population is approximately 415,789, with Mestizos making up the largest ethnic group at 52.9%. The country has a diverse society with many different cultures and languages, and over half of the population is multilingual.

Belize's economy is driven by tourism and agriculture, with sugar and bananas being key exports. Oil production has also contributed some state revenue. However, Belize's economy is vulnerable to global economic shocks, and the country has a high foreign debt burden.

Belize's political system

Belize is a parliamentary representative democratic monarchy, with a multi-party system. The king of Belize, currently King Charles III, serves as the head of state, while the prime minister acts as the head of government. The prime minister advises the governor-general on the executive duties of the government, who is appointed by the king. The governor-general, in turn, appoints the prime minister.

The National Assembly of Belize is a bicameral body, consisting of a House of Representatives and a Senate. The 31 members of the House of Representatives are elected by the people for a maximum term of five years. The Senate consists of 12 members, who are appointed by the governor-general. The governor-general appoints six members on the advice of the prime minister, three on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and one member on the advice of the Belize Council of Churches and the Evangelical Association of Churches, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Belize Business Bureau, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize and the Civil Society Steering Committee, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in good standing. The 13th member, the president of the Senate, is selected by the other senators, either from among themselves or from the general populace.

The party system is dominated by the centre-left People's United Party and the centre-right United Democratic Party. There are also smaller parties that have participated in governmental elections, but none have won a significant number of seats or offices.

Belize's legal system is based on English common law. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature, and members are appointed. The judicial system includes local magistrates grouped under the Magistrates' Court, which hears less serious cases, the Supreme Court, which hears murder and other serious cases, and the Court of Appeal, which hears appeals from convicted individuals seeking to overturn their sentences. Cases may, under certain circumstances, be appealed to the Privy Council in London, or the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Belize has a system of local government comprising four types of local authorities: city councils, town councils, village councils, and community councils.

Belize's economy

Belize has a small, developing, free-market economy that is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and services. The country has an export-oriented economy, with its main exports being seafood, sugar, citrus products, bananas, and clothing. Belize's economy is susceptible to external market changes, and it relies heavily on foreign trade, particularly with the United States, its number one trading partner.

Agriculture

Tourism

Belize's thriving tourism industry is supported by its diverse ecology, which includes the largest coral reef in the Americas, extensive mangrove ecosystems, abundant jungle flora and fauna, and numerous Mayan ruins. The country's unique cultural heritage, status as the only English-speaking country in Central America, and proximity to large markets such as the United States and Mexico also contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination.

Services

The service sector has accounted for the largest share of Belize's gross national product (GNP) since the early 1980s. Services, including tourism, make up nearly half of the labour force and GNP.

Other Industries

Belize also has a manufacturing industry, which contributes about one-eighth of the GNP and includes food products, fertilisers, and textiles. Additionally, the discovery of crude oil in Spanish Lookout has presented new opportunities and challenges for the country.

Economic Challenges

Belize faces several economic challenges, including a growing trade deficit, high electricity costs, and a lack of infrastructure investments. The country has a high prevalence of poverty, with over a third of the population living in multidimensional poverty and over half unable to afford adequate nutrition and basic necessities. Additionally, low female labour force participation and gender inequality hinder poverty reduction and economic growth.

Belize's government has implemented various policies and initiatives to address these challenges and promote economic stability and sustainable growth, including improving tax collection, fiscal restraint, and structural reforms.

Crime in Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America, with a population of under 400,000. Despite its small size, it has a relatively high rate of violent crime, including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder. The country has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world.

A significant portion of violent crime in Belize is gang-related, and the local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted. Belize City, in particular the Southside, has a reputation for being a "cesspool of crime", with gang conflicts and shootings almost daily.

Tourists are not usually targeted, but they are sometimes victims of theft and other petty crimes. However, there has been an increase in the number of violent incidents against foreign nationals, including home break-ins and physical assaults. Tourists are advised to exercise caution, especially when travelling to the south side of Belize City, and to avoid travelling at night.

Drug and human trafficking, organised crime, and street gang activity are prevalent in Belize. The country is also a transit point for illegal drugs between South and North America.

In addition to violent crime, credit card and ATM fraud occur frequently, especially in San Pedro.

Belize's tourism industry

Belize is located on the northeastern coast of Central America and boasts a diverse landscape, including terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The country is known for its extensive coral reefs, which are part of the globally significant Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. This diverse ecosystem, along with its pristine beaches and lush forests, attracts nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike.

The history of Belize's tourism industry dates back to the early 1970s, and the country has since established itself as a top recreational and adventure destination within the Caribbean region. Overnight tourist arrivals have shown a steady increase over the years, with a notable rise from 130,809 in 1995 to 277,136 in 2012. This growth in tourism has played a crucial role in the country's GDP, highlighting the industry's significance and potential for further sustainable development and investment.

Belize offers a range of tourism experiences, including scuba diving and snorkelling at the Belize Barrier Reef, exploring ancient Maya ruins, and enjoying the vibrant culture and cuisine of the country's diverse society. The Belize Tourism Board plays a vital role in promoting and regulating the industry, ensuring sustainable practices and responsible tourism.

In recent years, Belize has also been proactive in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing safety measures and providing travel updates to ensure the well-being of visitors and locals alike. Additionally, Belize was the first Caribbean country to allow vaccinated travellers to visit without a COVID-19 test, demonstrating its commitment to balancing health and safety with economic recovery.

The country's tourism industry is well-positioned for future growth, with ongoing development plans and investments. With its natural wonders, cultural attractions, and sustainable practices, Belize is set to remain a sought-after destination for travellers seeking unique and immersive experiences.

Belize's military

The history of the Belize military dates back to 1817, when the Prince Regent Royal Honduras Militia, a volunteer organisation, was founded. Since then, the military force in Belize has had ten different names, reflecting the changing political landscape of the country.

In 2012, the Belizean government spent approximately $17 million on the military, constituting 1.08% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). The BDF consists of a Service/Support Battalion, two Regular Battalions, and one Volunteer Battalion. The First Infantry Battalion was established in 1993 following the withdrawal of British Forces from Belize. The battalion has participated in various military exercises within Belize and has also contributed to United Nations Peace Operations in Haiti.

The Second Infantry Battalion, formed in 1994, consists of three Infantry Companies: Sierra, Alpha, and Echo. This battalion has undergone several nomenclature changes throughout its history, alternating between Land Command South (LCS) and Land Command North (LCN) based on rotation.

In addition to the infantry battalions, the BDF also includes a Special Assignment Group, which is its special forces unit, and the Belize Defence Force Band, which was established in 1978.

The BDF plays a crucial role in maintaining the security and sovereignty of Belize, with the support of the Belize National Coast Guard and the Immigration Department.

Frequently asked questions