Border Security Project Announced Following News 5 Exposé on Illegal Logging and Soldier Bribery
Earlier this month it was announced that the European Union (EU), in partnership with the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), launched two new projects to promote inclusive socio-economic development in southern Belize and enhance government border management capacities.
Both projects are valued at BZD 16 million.
One of those projects is the “Effective and Sustainable Management of Belize’s Western and Southern Border” project, with a budget of BZD 7 million. It aims to improve border management, security, and cross-border cooperation. It includes developing a national Strategy for integrated border management, updating conservation plans for forest protection, and strengthening the capacity of border enforcement and conservation agencies through training and equipment.
The announcement was made following a News Five Digital investigation that began in September 2024 and a groundbreaking investigative piece published in early October. The investigation revealed that Guatemalan illegal loggers were bribing Belizean soldiers stationed at conservation posts along the western border with Guatemala for more than five years. The soldiers would allow the illegal loggers to continue harvesting precious wood in Belize. This was confirmed by Belize Defence Force Commander Brigadier General Azariel on November 1.
Soldiers were bribed with many items, including cash and chicken.
The report uncovered serious challenges that soldiers face patrolling the porous border, including outdated communications equipment, poor working conditions, and massive deforestation activities in forest reserves.
The signing ceremony for the projects was held on December 5 in Belize City. In a release, EU Ambassador Dr. Erja Askola said, “This will have a significant transformational potential for new economic prospects in Belize, especially the southern and border areas….We will also support the strengthening of border management, security, and trade facilitation capacities at land and maritime borders, which are all key priorities for Belize”.
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Widespread Bribery Among B.D.F. Soldiers?
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B.D.F Investigates Patrol Commanders for Bribery Allegations
Are B.D.F. Soldiers Accepting Bribes Because They Are Poorly Paid?
B.D.F. Getting Better Communication Equipment
Guatemalans Accused of Bribing and Surrounding BDF Soldiers at Machakilha
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B.D.F. Brig. Gen. Confirms Guatemalans Bribing Patrol Commanders
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