Belize Modernises Criminal Justice System

Belize’s efforts to modernise its Criminal Justice System takes a step forward with a ‘first of its kind’ conference on Criminal Justice Reform from September 2nd to September 6th, 2024, in Belize City. 

The Conference, hosted by the Senior Courts of Belize Judicial Education Institute, is titled “Advancing the Caribbean Court of Justice Academy for Law Needham’s Point Declaration.” The five-day event will focus on implementing the Needham’s Point Declaration and addressing backlog issues in the criminal justice system. 

The Needham’s Point Declaration covers key areas related to criminal justice reform, including policy and legislative interventions, prosecution, police representation for the accused victims’ rights, and judicial interventions. The declaration emphasises the need for swift justice for the guilty and protection of the innocent.

According to an official statement, the event will bring together judges, magistrates, crown counsel, defence counsel, police prosecutors, forensic analysts, and other stakeholders.