Belize Fails to Meet Minimum Anti-Trafficking Standards, Remains Tier 2

The latest US State Department report confirms Belize remains on Tier 2 for human trafficking after it failed to meet minimum standards for its elimination.

Despite “significant efforts,” the government did not convict any traffickers in 2024, and official complicity remains a “significant concern.”

The report also pointed out that no traffickers were convicted this year, compared to two in 2023. It said that although five prosecutions were initiated, long court delays, lack of witness protection, and intimidation continue to stall justice.

The report added, “Authorities reported that many trafficking cases did not reach the trial stage due to long delays, defendants often leaving the country, and intimidation and witness tampering.”

Victim protection saw modest gains. Fifteen victims were identified and referred to services.

Meanwhile, NGOs say the government lacks the capacity to identify all victims and did not operate shelters for adult victims. Observers noted that immigration officers were “not adequately trained” and many frontline officials failed to screen “migrants who did not speak English for trafficking indicators.”

It also found major weaknesses in how foreign workers, including Cubans, Chinese, and Indians, are screened for signs of exploitation.

The government increased funding for victim services and launched a new National Action Plan for 2024 to 2028. But it failed to screen “Cuban regime-affiliated workers” or oversee Chinese and Indian labour contracts.

Liquor licence inspectors were unpaid and reportedly avoided inspections. A new policy banning worker-paid recruitment fees remains unenforced, as no labour recruiter registry has been established.

While the report recognises that Belize has taken steps to combat trafficking, it makes clear that efforts remain insufficient to fully safeguard victims.