Tag:
Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children
Government
New Board of Commissioners Inaugurated for the National Women’s Commission
In a significant step forward for gender equality and women’s empowerment in Belize, the National Women’s Commission (NWC) officially inaugurated its new Board of Commissioners on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at a formal ceremony held at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize City.
Community and Society
Minimum age for legal marriage in Belize to be raised from 16 to 18
At the recent meeting of the Children's Parliament, participants engaged in discussions and debates about the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill. Although initially a simulated session, the bill gained traction and is expected to be presented in a formal parliamentary assembly. The National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC) and Women's Commission have led these efforts and have been facilitating discussions aimed at eradicating child marriages. One of the main proposals is to raise the legal marriage age from 16 to 18.
Government
Spotlight Initiative Supports Safe Houses in Belize
The Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network (SCLAN), the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, and the Spotlight Initiative supported Belize’s safe houses with groceries, food hampers and essential household items. The safe houses all received support totalling BZ$56,516.12.
Government
Belize and Taiwan Host Award Ceremony for “Women Who Boss” Competition
On May 8, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) held an award ceremony for the winners of the MSME Women Economic Empowerment Competition: WOMEN WHO BOSS. The competition was held under the “Enhancing the Economic Empowerment of Women in Latin America and the Caribbean in the COVID-19 Post-Pandemic Era: Technical Assistance for Women Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Inclusion” project.
Community and Society
Third Handing Over Ceremony for the Beneficiaries of the Empowerment Project in Belize
On June 2, 2022, Ambassador Amalia Mai, CEO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade; H.E David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize; H.E. Rossana Briceño, Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children; and other invited guests gathered for the third handing over ceremony to the beneficiaries of the project, “Enhancing the Economic Empowerment of Women in Latin America and the Caribbean in the COVID-19 Post-Pandemic Era: Technical Assistance for Women Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Inclusion”.
Community and Society
Women’s Day observed in Ambergris Caye and across Belize
Tuesday, March 8th, is recognized globally as International Women’s Day, celebrating women throughout the month. The current town council administration counts with four female leaders, and women-led organizations on the island have contributed towards the battle against gender-based violence.
Community and Society
Hope Haven Domestic Violence Outreach Center officially opens in San Pedro Town
Island residents afflicted by domestic violence can now access a facility with personnel committed to preventing further violence, protecting victims, and empowering survivors. The Hope Haven Domestic Violence Outreach Center officially opened its doors on Wednesday, December 15th, just a couple feet from the Holy Cross Anglican Primary School at the entrance of the San Mateo area. The center will provide police assistance, legal aid, emergency placements, Women’s Department assistance, and accessible mental health services. Anyone needing help can visit the center opening from 9AM to 4PM Monday to Friday. For any emergencies after hours or weekends, please contact the police.
Government
Prime Minister Hon. Briceño declares his state visit to Mexico successful; Mexico donates second batch of COVID-19 vaccines
On Saturday, October 2nd, Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño and his delegation returned to Belize after a week-long state visit to Mexico. During the visit, the prime minister joined Mexicans in celebrating their 200th anniversary of independence, held bilateral meetings with officials and Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and returned to the country with another batch of AstraZeneca vaccines against COVID-19 courtesy of the Mexican government.