Europe’s Immigration Politics Stall Belize’s Waiver Bid

For years, Belizeans have hoped that traveling to Europe would become as simple as booking a ticket and boarding a plane. But despite recent progress on long-term Schengen visas, that goal remains out of reach. Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca says Belize is no closer to securing visa-free access to Europe, pointing to political pressures and growing anti-immigration sentiment across the continent. While the government continues to push for easier travel opportunities, a full Schengen visa waiver appears unlikely anytime soon.

 

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs

“I think as you know, we had a big win. I think we reported last year when we got he cascade visa, so it is no longer a single entry visa. When you go to Mexico and Guatemala and you apply for a Schengen Visa now they give you a three to five year via. In the past it use to be a one entry visa. So, that is a step in the right direction. It is not a waiver. I made this point before, that really is caught up in European politics. As you all know, there is a rise of right wing parties in Europe. They are anti-immigration. So they have taken a very firm position against these types of waivers. So the reality is I don’t expect that full waiver to come anytime soon.”

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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