Government
The National Meteorological Service of Belize Engages in the Readiness Phase of the Systematic Observations Financing Facility
Belize, through the National Meteorological Service (NMS) within the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, has been selected as one of the first countries globally to benefit from the World Meteorological Organization's (WMOs) Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF).
Environment
Oceana delivers petitions to Governor General office to initiate referendum against offshore oil exploration
On Thursday, June 22nd, Oceana Belize visited the office of the Governor General Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam, to deliver signed petitions from registered Belizean voters to trigger a referendum on offshore oil drilling in Belize waters. Oceana said the number of petitions delivered exceeds the legally required 10% of the electorate. The non-profit organization believes that Belizeans should be consulted and decide if the current offshore oil and natural gas moratorium passed as law in December 2017 should ever be lifted.
Government
Coastal Zone and Fisheries Sector conduct Inclusive Consultations for National Adaptation Plan
Consultations for the development of a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for the Coastal Zone Areas of Belize and Belize Fisheries Sector have commenced, the first on June 20, 2023, in Dangriga Town and other sessions earmarked for June 22-23, 2023, in Belize City.
Government
Belize Files for Advisory Opinion to UNCLOS
The Advisory Opinion sought from ITLOS aims to allow states and international organizations to seek non-binding legal advice on issues related to the interpretation and application of UNCLOS, providing an important avenue for promoting cooperation in the maritime domain. This legal mechanism will help Belize navigate the complex intersection of environmental protection, sustainable development, and international law. The Advisory Opinion will provide Belize with adequate support to make informed decisions and implement effective policies to safeguard the health of its marine resources under international law and ensure a sustainable future for its people.
Government
MoHW Strengthens Regulatory Functions
The Ministry of Health & Wellness (MoHW) has strengthened its regulatory functions countrywide with an increase in inspections of businesses, pharmacies, food establishments, and hotels in every district.
Government
Belize Deposits Instrument of Acceptance for WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
On June 16, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, and Immigration through H.E. Dr. Gianni Avila, submitted Belize's instrument of acceptance of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, making Belize the first Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Central American Integration System (SICA) country to take this significant step towards sustainable fisheries practices at the multilateral level.
Government
Belizean Troops Return from Military Exercise in the United States
Belizean troops returned from the United States on June 14, 2023 after participating in a three week combat training with U.S. military and international counterparts at Fort Polk, Louisiana. The group included 144 personnel from the Belize Defence Force and the Belize Coast Guard, who provided support for the training of units within the Louisiana National Guard’s Infantry Brigade Combat Team. A total of 5,509 military personnel from the United States and partner nations engaged in the exercise.
Government
MOHW Launches the National Nutrition Policy
In an era marked by increasing rates of chronic diseases and nutritional imbalances, the Ministry of Health & Wellness recognizes the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to nutrition. As a result, the MOHW launched the National Nutrition Policy 2022-2023 in Belize City on June 8, 2023.