Tag:
UNICEF
Community and Society
1.1 Billion Children Face Climate Risks Worldwide; Belize included in UNICEF Assessment
On June 16, UNICEF launched its Children’s Climate Risk Report 2026, a global assessment indicating that nearly half of the world's children—approximately 1.1 billion—are exposed to at least three overlapping climate and environmental threats that affect their health, education, and overall well-being. Belize is among the countries identified as facing multiple climate-related risks.
Community and Society
Blue Teddy Bear Campaign launched to strengthen child protection efforts
Belize has officially launched the national “Blue Teddy Bear Campaign” to address violence and sexual abuse against children. Government agencies, UNICEF, and community partners introduced the initiative in Belize City, with plans for outreach in San Pedro. The event occurred on March 20th under the leadership of the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC), in collaboration with UNICEF Belize and the Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs.
Community and Society
Return to Happiness Workshop Held in San Pedro
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.
Health
Government Responds to Public Concern Over E. Coli Findings in National Survey
Belize Water Services (BWS) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) issued public reassurances on November 26th following national concern over the MICS7 survey results, which indicated high levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) contamination in drinking water samples collected from households across Belize. The clarification followed the release of preliminary findings by the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB), which were widely circulated, prompting questions about water safety.
Community and Society
Belize Celebrates Children’s Day with Focus on Rights and Protection
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.
Government
Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs Partners with UNICEF and National Parenting Committee to Strengthen Parenting Support Nationwide
The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs (MHDFSGA), in partnership with UNICEF and the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC), has embarked on a transformative national initiative aimed at addressing one of the most fundamental challenges facing Belize, ensuring all parents and caregivers have access to coordinated and evidence-based support to raise healthy, thriving children. This initiative marks a significant investment in the future of Belize by strengthening the foundation of the family through improved parenting support systems.
Government
MoHW and UNICEF Strengthen Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Training
The Ministry of Health & Wellness (MoHW), through its Mental Health Unit, in collaboration with UNICEF, has launched a strategic training initiative on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)—an evidence-based psychological intervention proven effective in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioural issues in young people.
Community and Society
Department of Human Services Launches National Training to Strengthen Social Work Reporting for Child Protection
The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs (MHDFSGA), through the Department of Human Services (DHS), in partnership with UNICEF, is pleased to announce the launch of a week-long national training aimed at strengthening social work reporting processes critical to Belize’s child protection system.