Belize Rewriting “Decades-Old” Labour Laws

From remote jobs to the booming call centre industry, the Ministry of Labour says the current Labour Act has failed to keep pace with fast-changing industries and growing labour shortages.

“It’s been decades as our standing legislation and it does not reflect in many areas our realities of labour today. There are many new emerging industries, many issues, many new ways in which people work. For instance, working from home, in technology, the call centre business,” said the Ministry’s CEO, Tanya Santos.

Santos said the review is also tackling what is costing the country, such as migration, skilled trades gaps and even labour shortages, as she referenced the San Pedro hospital facing delays in its construction because qualified local workers are not available.

The consultation brought together union representatives, the Belize Chamber of Commerce, and stakeholders from tourism and other sectors. Fair wages, job security, workplace safety, and the cost burden on employers are all on the table for discussion.

“It is always a perfect time to update your legislation,” Santos added.