Government

Throughout September, Belizeans witnessed another flare-up in tensions surrounding the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute. Guatemala continues to assert a claim over half of Belize’s landmass, all of its islands (Cayes), and the maritime territory extending from the coast. The latest incidents with the Guatemalan Armed Forces at the Sarstoon River in southern Belize prompted strong protests from the Government of Belize. In response, Guatemala reaffirmed its sovereignty claim over the entire river. Experts further explained that Guatemala’s position extends to all of Belize’s Cayes. Guatemalan officials also discussed possible scenarios in the event that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules in their favor.

On Wednesday, September 24th, Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño and his delegation participated in the first Biennial Summit for a Sustainable, Inclusive, and Resilient Global Economy. The event, held during the 80th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, aimed to strengthen existing ties and establish additional coordination between the UN and international financial institutions. It also focused on accelerating reforms to the global economic system and enhancing the voice and representation of developing countries.

During a recent sitting of the House of Representatives in Belmopan, several bills were introduced, including the first-ever Climate Change and Carbon Market Initiatives Bill, 2025. The legislation was presented by the Honorable Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development and Climate Change. According to him, the bill sets a legal and constitutional foundation and establishes structures to protect the country’s land, waters, and people.

The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) continues to advance its commitment to climate finance and sustainable development with the participation of its leadership team at the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue with Latin America and the Caribbean, currently taking place in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from September 15–17, 2025.

As of October 1st, Belize, Barbados, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are expected to begin implementing the free movement of their citizens...

Belize has been responding diplomatically to recent Guatemalan military incursions into its southern waters following two incidents on September 10 and 13 at the Sarstoon River. The Guatemalan navy claims the entire river belongs to their country. They attempted to block access when a group of Belizeans with the Belize Territorial Volunteers, escorted by the Belize Defence Force (BDF) and Coast Guard, visited the area. The Government of Belize (GOB) has raised the matter with its international allies and has received support from regional and international organizations.

On Tuesday, September 16th, Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño delivered his State of the Nation address at the University of Belize campus in Belmopan City. He spoke about the country’s progress and challenges in the economy, jobs, and national security. One announcement that drew considerable attention was another planned increase in the minimum wage from $5 to $6 per hour. While employees would take more money home, some stakeholders and critics argue the move could negatively affect the local economy.

Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño delivered the annual State of the Nation address in Belmopan on September 16 before a large audience at the University of Belize. The ceremony featured a guard of honour inspection, raising the Belize flag, speeches, and introducing 44 newly naturalized Belizeans.