Belize Takes Part in ILO Regional Meeting on Decent Work

Belize was among the countries represented at the 20th American Regional Meeting of the International Labour Organization (ILO), held in the Dominican Republic, from October 1 to 3. The event focused on advancing decent work, social justice, and inclusive development across the Americas.

Belize’s delegation included Minister Florencio Marin Jr, CEO Valentino Shal, and Labour Commissioner Rissela Dominguez-Patt. Representing employers was Kim Aikman from the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, while Ella Waight from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize spoke on behalf of workers.

More than 300 participants from governments, businesses, and labour organisations discussed ways to create more jobs, protect workers, and make workplaces fairer and safer. The meeting concluded with the Punta Cana Declaration, a commitment to strengthen democracy, peace, and decent work in the region.

The outcomes of the meeting will help guide Belize’s national policies under its Decent Work Country Programme 2024 to 2029. For Belizeans, this could mean real improvements in job opportunities, working conditions, and how decisions are made about labour and development.