Community and Society

The Government of Belize has introduced legislative reforms aimed at strengthening protections for survivors of domestic violence. On November 20, 2025, two significant amendments were tabled in Belmopan: The Justices of the Peace (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Together, these updates aim to provide faster, more accessible emergency protection, particularly during nights, weekends, holidays, and other periods when the courts are closed.

From November 20 to 22, 2025, a three-day training workshop for the Return to Happiness (RTH) Program took place at Sagebrush Community Church in San Pedro. Organized by UNICEF and the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), the workshop aimed to provide community members with practical tools to help children recover from trauma caused by natural disasters and other distressing events.

On November 25th, San Pedro joined the national observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with an official flag-raising ceremony at Central Park. The event, organized by the San Pedro Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Committee, highlights the island community’s commitment to raising awareness, strengthening prevention efforts, and supporting the national call to end all forms of violence across Belize.

San Pedro joined the national observance of World Children’s Day on November 20th with activities centered on this year’s theme, “My Day, My Rights.” Preschool and primary school students gathered at locations including Boca del Rio and the Ambergris Stadium for a day of organized events highlighting children’s rights, development, and well-being. San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS), together with other island schools, also hosted a lively parade to mark the occasion.

On Sunday, November 23rd, Saga Humane Society proudly inaugurated its new building on Sea Grape Drive in San Pedro Town, marking an important milestone in its 26-year mission to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty. The celebration followed a busy and productive Saturday at the clinic, where the team completed several spay and neuter surgeries, handled emergencies, and continued progressing toward their annual goal of 1,500 procedures. Volunteers, supporters, and staff, including veterinarians Dr. Baptist and Dr. Heather, were recognized for their dedication, and the team also celebrated the birthday of clinic manager and vet tech Ingrid Lima. The grand opening event, held from 2PM to 5PM, welcomed community members who enjoyed tours of the new facility, an information booth, refreshments, and merchandise, including hats, t-shirts, and dog collars.

Dear Editor, The San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group wishes to thank all those who came to donate blood at the blood drive held on...

Violence against women and girls continues to be a serious and persistent problem in the Region of the Americas, according to new estimates presented today by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN partners. The data, released ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls on 25 November, reveal that one in three women aged 15 and older in the Region has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in her life.

San Pedro Town is gearing up for its dazzling annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 20th. Organized by the San Pedro Tour Operators Association, the event invites boats adorned with shimmering lights to cruise along the coastline after sunset, creating a magical tropical holiday experience for residents and visitors.