Tag:
Guatemala
Crime & Violence
Commissioner Rosado Placed on Leave Pending Full Budna Investigation
On Monday, September 8, 2025, Belize’s Commissioner of Police, Dr. Richard Rosado, was placed on a 45-day leave amid the controversy surrounding the Joseph Budna kidnapping case. The move, unprecedented in Belize’s history, followed Prime Minister John Briceño’s review of an initial investigative report that he deemed “incomplete and unsatisfactory.” The decision has sparked a strong national reaction.
Environment
Landmark Maya Forest Protection Agreement Signed by Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico
For the first time in diplomatic history, Belize’s Prime Minister, Honorable Dr. John Briceño, met with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo at a special gathering on August 15 in Calakmul, Mexico. The high-level trilateral meeting culminated in the signing of a landmark agreement aimed at strengthening environmental conservation and enhancing regional cooperation on energy, infrastructure, and trade.
Conservation
The Challenges of Protecting the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve
The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, located in southern Belize, is a chain of 14 islands off the coast of the Toledo District, currently co-managed by the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE). TIDE conducts routine patrols alongside the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) to protect the area from illegal fishing and other illicit activities. However, enforcement efforts are met with significant challenges, including transboundary issues stemming from the reserve’s proximity to Guatemala and Honduras.
Environment
Belize on High Alert for New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax)
On the 29th of October 2024, Guatemala confirmed cases of New World Screwworm (NWS) around Los Amates, Izabal, located 44 miles from the Belize-Guatemala southern border. Both confirmed cases were in bovines (cattle).
Community and Society
San Pedro celebrates the independence of Central American countries and Mexico
The Noche Centro Americana celebration, a vibrant display of cultural diversity, took place on Saturday, September 14th, at the Honorable Louis Sylvester Sporting Arena. This annual event features a rich tapestry of culinary delights, cultural presentations, and entertainment in honor of the Independence Day celebrations of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Mexico.
Government
Prime Minister Briceño official visit to Guatemala focused on strengthening trade ties
Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño returned to Belize on Tuesday, August 27th after leading a delegation on an official visit to Guatemala. Briceño met with Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo and members of the private sector and discussed trade opportunities.
Community and Society
Annual Rotary District Conference held on Ambergris Caye
The 29th Annual District 4250 Rotary Conference celebrated the diverse and united Rotary family in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, from April 25th to 27th. The event was a testament to the strong community and connection participants from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, the United States, the Dominican Republic, and Argentina shared.
Environment
Illegally constructed road and wooden bridges found inside Belize National Parks
The Frіеndѕ fоr Соnѕеrvаtіоn and Dеvеlopmеnt (FСD) are considered the guardians of the Chiquibul National Park in the Cayo District in western Belize. For years, they have monitored the continuous encroachment of Guatemalan nationals, bringing it to the government's attention. Recent reports reveal an illegally constructed road inside the national park and bridges in the nearby Columbia Forest Reserve. The Ministry of National Defense and Border Security received the findings and is investigating as these activities violate Belize's sovereignty.
