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Tourist Mobility Pass Now Available for Belizean Visitors to Quintana Roo

Belizean tourists travelling to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo can now take advantage of the Tourist Mobility Pass—a free digital tool designed to improve the visitor experience and safeguard their rights while in the region.

The pass is available through the website https://guestassist.mx/servicios/pase-movilidad and can be accessed via the Guest Assist app, which is regulated by the Government of Quintana Roo. Visitors can download the app from the App Store or Google Play and complete a simple form with their personal information to activate the pass on their mobile devices.

Among the key benefits of the Tourist Mobility Pass is that it grants two courtesy traffic tickets for minor infractions. It also prevents the confiscation of official documents in cases where a non-serious traffic violation occurs during their stay.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the State Tourism Secretariat of Quintana Roo, the State Traffic Department, and business organisations in the southern zone, including the Association of Hotels of Central and Southern Quintana Roo, Coparmex Chetumal, Canirac Chetumal Bacalar, and Canaco Servytur.

Authorities strongly encourage Belizean travellers to obtain their Tourist Mobility Pass before entering Mexico and to present it to traffic officers if required. The measure is intended to ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable experience for Belizean visitors to the state.

Caribbean Court of Justice Celebrates 20 Years of Upholding Regional Rule of Law

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) commemorated its 20th anniversary on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with an interfaith service of reflection and prayer at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The ceremony brought together regional dignitaries, legal professionals, and members of the diplomatic corps, with Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, in attendance.

The event marked two decades since the CCJ’s establishment in 2005 as the region’s final appellate court and the guardian of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. During that time, the Court has delivered over 400 appellate judgements and 37 decisions in its original jurisdiction, many of which have addressed constitutional rights, trade disputes, and the free movement of CARICOM nationals.

CCJ President, the Honourable Mr Justice Adrian Saunders, described the anniversary as a moment for gratitude, noting the Court’s commitment to justice, innovation, and independence. Commissioner Sophia Chote SC echoed those sentiments, praising the Court’s high standards and contributions to legal education through the CCJ Academy for Law.

GOB Moves to Address Ongoing Erosion on Placencia Peninsula

In response to growing concerns from residents of the Placencia Peninsula, three key government ministries have pledged urgent action to tackle the ongoing coastal erosion threatening the area. The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management; the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum & Mining; and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing convened this week to discuss a collaborative response to the escalating environmental issue.

According to a joint statement, the Government of Belize has acknowledged the erosion problem and committed to identifying and addressing both natural and human-induced factors contributing to the degradation of the coastline.

Officials stressed that the impacts of climate change continue to pose serious risks to Belize’s coastal communities, endangering not only natural resources and beaches but also private property and livelihoods.

Residents have raised alarm about a range of contributing factors, including the construction of structures that disrupt the natural movement of sediment and the extraction of sand in the area. The government noted that these concerns were central to discussions at the inter-ministerial meeting, where short-, medium-, and long-term solutions were considered.

As part of its immediate plan of action, the government outlined six key steps:

Engage with local community leaders to ensure municipal stakeholders are informed and included in planning efforts.
Improve communication between regulatory bodies overseeing permits related to mining, construction, and mangrove alteration.
Rigorously enforce environmental regulations to prevent unauthorised activities that may worsen erosion.
Increase the frequency of compliance inspections to monitor approved developments that could contribute to the problem.
Present stakeholder concerns and proposed solutions to the Cabinet for swift consideration.
Seek support for scientific studies to inform sustainable long-term decision-making.

The ministries also expressed appreciation for ongoing research being conducted by the University of South Florida and for the active role played by local communities in highlighting the issue.

UK Supreme Court Rules Legal Definition of ‘Woman’ Is Based on Biological Sex

In a landmark decision delivered today, the UK Supreme Court has ruled unanimously that, under the Equality Act 2010, the legal definition of a woman refers specifically to biological sex. The judgment clarifies that individuals with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) who identify as female do not fall within the legal definition of a “woman” for the purposes of sex-based rights.

Reading from an 88-page judgment, Deputy President Lord Hodge stated that the “concept of sex is binary,” though he stressed the ruling should not be viewed as a win for one side or a loss for another. Importantly, the court reaffirmed that transgender individuals still have legal protection from discrimination under the Equality Act.

The case stemmed from a challenge by For Women Scotland, a women’s rights advocacy group, against the Scottish government’s attempt to redefine “woman” in legislation to include transgender women with GRCs. The court sided with For Women Scotland, concluding that such a definition would be inconsistent with the Equality Act.

In response to the ruling, For Women Scotland said it was “grateful” for the decision after a “long road” of legal battles. On the other hand, LGBTQ+ rights organization Scottish Trans called the verdict “devastating” and urged supporters “not to panic.”

While hailed by some as a “watershed moment” for sex-based rights and a “victory for biology and common sense,” the ruling has stirred anxiety within the trans community over the future of legal protections and recognition.

The Scottish government, which lost the case, said it had acted “in good faith” in its interpretation of the law, and pledged to work with Westminster to better understand the implications of the judgment.

Police Remind Businesses of Liquor Sales Ban for Easter Weekend

As Easter approaches, the Belize Police Department is reminding liquor license holders across the country to observe the legal restrictions on the sale of alcohol during the holiday weekend.

In a directive issued on April 15, 2025, the Commissioner of Police relies on key provisions under Section 27 of the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act and Regulation 5 of the Liquor License Regulations. The memo outlines that no liquor is to be sold, exposed for sale, consumed, or delivered on licensed premises at any time during the mandated closure period, including Good Friday, April 18, from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Only restaurant license holders may serve liquor—and only under one condition: it must be sold with a full meal, and the alcohol must be consumed while eating. The law clearly states that no alcohol sales are permitted without a meal on that day.

Police Commanders have been tasked with conducting inspections to ensure strict compliance with all aspects of the law. They are also reminded to monitor for violations such as:

Unauthorized alterations to premises without board approval.
Persons found on licensed premises during closure periods.

The directive emphasizes that only the license holder or their employees may be present at licensed establishments when they are officially closed.

The police are urging full cooperation to ensure that the Easter weekend remains safe and peaceful.

Follow These Holiday Safety Tips for Road Use, Home Security, and Water Activities

As the holiday season approaches, the Belize Police Department is urging the public to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and incident-free celebration. Through its Police Public Relations Office, the Department has released a comprehensive list of holiday safety tips covering road safety, home security, and swimming safety.

Road Traffic Safety: Think Before You Drive

Police are reminding drivers not to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Even if blood alcohol levels are below the legal limit, judgment and reaction time can still be impaired. The Department advises planning ahead by assigning a designated driver or arranging alternate transportation.

Officers also caution that alcohol is not the only substance that can impair driving—medications and other drugs may also affect one’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Drivers are encouraged to remain alert, especially at night, and to avoid swerving vehicles and those without proper lighting.

Motorcyclists and cyclists are reminded to avoid riding under the influence and to wear proper reflective clothing and helmets for increased visibility and safety.

Protect Your Home from Burglars

With many families traveling or attending events, home security becomes especially important. Police recommend securing all doors and windows and using deadbolts for added protection. Valuable possessions should be kept out of view to avoid attracting potential burglars.

Homeowners are advised to install outdoor lighting or motion sensors and to leave a light on inside the house at night. Overgrown plants and shrubs should be cleared away to eliminate potential hiding spots. Trusted neighbors should also be informed when residents are away, so they can keep an eye on the property.

Water Safety: A Lifesaving Priority

As Belizeans flock to beaches, rivers, and pools during the holiday, the Police Department stresses the importance of swimming only in designated areas and under supervision. Children should never be left alone near water, and a responsible adult should always be watching.

While life jackets are crucial for safety, police emphasize that they are not a substitute for proper supervision. Supervisors should remain alert and avoid distractions such as phones, alcohol, or other substances.

In case of emergencies, citizens are reminded to call 9-1-1 for assistance and to remain calm while waiting for emergency personnel.

The Belize Police Department encourages all residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly. “If you are consuming alcoholic beverages, don’t swim or be near the water,” the advisory states.

Justice Chile Eboe-Osuji Sworn In as New Judge of the CCJ

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) officially welcomed a new judge today as Justice Chile Eboe-Osuji was sworn in during a ceremony at The President’s House in Port of Spain. The oath of office was administered by Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Justice Eboe-Osuji, a Nigerian-Canadian jurist and the first of his nationality to be appointed to the CCJ, fills the vacancy left by Justice Andrew Burgess, who retired on April 11. His appointment was made by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), following a rigorous and merit-based selection process that drew 26 applicants from across the Commonwealth and CARICOM states.

CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders, praised the new appointee’s extensive legal background, which includes service as a former President of the International Criminal Court, Legal Advisor to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and experience before courts in Nigeria and Canada. Justice Saunders called him “a brilliant legal mind” poised to make a significant contribution to Caribbean jurisprudence.

In his remarks, Justice Eboe-Osuji stressed the CCJ’s critical role in regional justice, stating it is an honour to join a court that empowers CARICOM nations to rely on their own final appellate body.

CCJ judges serve until the age of 72, while the Court’s president serves a single, non-renewable seven-year term.

Minister of Transport Welcomes Incoming CEO Chester Williams

Incoming CEO Chester Williams is expected to bring a strong enforcement edge to the Ministry of Transport, according to Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh. Although Williams officially assumes the post on May 1, he has already begun attending meetings and familiarising himself with the portfolio.

“His strengths will certainly come to bear,” said Zabaneh. “Especially looking at areas of enforcement, safety, the training of our traffic wardens… laws that could strengthen their presence on the road. These are things that he will be able to help tremendously to ensure we can implement them expeditiously to the benefit of the public.”

When asked about concerns regarding Williams’ leadership style, Zabaneh dismissed the idea of conflict. “I think we are going to work very well together. I know incoming CEO Chester Williams very well… we have the common objective of service to our country.”

Minister of Transport Vows Crackdown on Unsafe Buses and Reckless Drivers

Following a series of alarming incidents involving public buses—including accidents and even one vehicle catching fire—newly appointed Minister of Transport, Dr. Louis Zabaneh, is promising urgent action to safeguard commuters.

“This is a critical function that must be carried out very carefully,” Dr. Zabaneh said today in an interview with News 5. “We have seen in the past month alone some serious cases—accidents on the road, buses catching fire. These are of grave concern to us. It is a hazard to the public, certainly commuters on those buses, but also to other persons on the highways.”

Over the past few weeks, public concern has grown over the ageing and deteriorating bus fleet operating on Belize’s highways. Though no lives have been lost, the recent mishaps have sparked renewed calls for the Government of Belize to take old and unsafe buses off the road.

In response, Dr. Zabaneh said he has already taken steps: “It is critical and I have instructed to carry out necessary inspections of these buses.”

But the minister says addressing vehicle condition is only one part of the equation. He pointed to troubling reports about bus drivers engaging in dangerous behaviour.

“We have to look at a certification program for drivers of buses,” Dr. Zabaneh explained. “They are entrusted with the lives of people on their buses. We cannot have drivers who are reckless, who we understand in between runs, when they are waiting to go back to where they came from, that they are seen in public drinking. Or when they drive, they are seen texting while driving, racing on the road.”

The Ministry of Transport is expected to roll out a more robust enforcement plan in the coming weeks, as it seeks to restore public confidence in the nation’s bus system.

IOM Chief Calls for Urgent Global Support as Haiti’s Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

As Haiti faces a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis, Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, is calling on the global community to urgently increase support for displaced families struggling amid violence and instability.

During a recent high-level visit to Port-au-Prince, Pope met with families displaced by gang violence, many of whom have fled their homes multiple times. Over 1 million people are now displaced inside Haiti—three times more than last year—while nearly 200,000 were deported from neighbouring countries in 2024, placing immense strain on already overwhelmed services.

“This is one of the most complex and urgent crises in the world,” said Pope. “When we invest in humanitarian aid, we don’t just save lives—we build the foundations for stability and resilience.”

Pope described meeting a mother who had fled her home three times in two months, now sheltering under a tarp with her children. “These are not just numbers. These are real lives caught in a cycle of crisis.”

While in Haiti, Pope met with government officials to explore solutions for improving migration governance, expanding access to legal documentation, and strengthening reintegration efforts.

IOM is currently leading humanitarian operations at more than 50 displacement sites, providing emergency shelter, water and sanitation, protection services, and support for rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods in affected communities.