Stakeholders Discuss Sexual Offences Laws in Belize

The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, together with the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC) and the National Women’s Commission (NWC), held a special meeting on understanding sexual offences in Belize on May 27, 2026, in Belmopan.

The session took place at the Western Regional Hospital Vaccination Building Conference Room and brought together representatives from the judiciary, police, healthcare, social services, universities, and advocacy groups.

The meeting focused on Belize’s laws related to sexual offences and the challenges survivors often face when seeking justice and support. Participants discussed offences such as rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, incest, sexual assault, and the Sex Offenders Registry. Other topics included counseling requirements, the Trafficking in Persons Act, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC), and the Protection of Witnesses Act.

The discussions were led by Justice Antoinette Moore and Justice Natalie Creary-Dixon. Stakeholders also examined gaps in the reporting and court process and explored ways agencies can work together more effectively to support survivors.

Representatives at the meeting included members of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Council (A-TIPS), the Family Support and Gender Affairs Department, the High Court, Galen University, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Department of Human Services, the Office of the Special Envoy, and the Police Department’s Gender-Based Violence Response and Investigation Unit (GVRIU).

The Ministry said it remains committed to strengthening cooperation among agencies, raising awareness, and improving protections and services for vulnerable individuals and families across Belize.