Can Partnerships Help Belize Fight Human Trafficking?

With human trafficking continuing to threaten vulnerable communities, Belize’s government is stepping up its efforts. Officials, experts, and organisations gathered on Thursday to discuss the harsh realities of human trafficking and how to better protect those at risk. The event was organised by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons (ATIPs) Council and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). It focused on the global nature of the issue and how collaboration can drive real change in the fight against exploitation, particularly on the geopolitical and transnational dimensions of human trafficking.

In her opening remarks, CEO of the Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Adele Catzim-Sanchez spoke on the harsh realities of trafficking but acknowledged the progress made. She said the road ahead requires continued partnership between the government, NGOs, international organisations, and the private sector.

As part of its commitment to fighting human trafficking, the Belize Police Department and the Human Trafficking Institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding this year on February 8. Five months later, the RET International conducted a training session for transportation industry workers to raise awareness of human trafficking in July. The University of Belize incorporating the training into its e-courses.

The Belize City Mayor, Bernard Wagner, highlighted the importance of that training and its impact in building awareness within the transportation industry. “Human trafficking is not only relegated to Belize. It’s all across the world. It’s a million, billion-dollar industry. And having this first step and this starting point, we really should begin to see some returns,” Wagner said.