New Bill Threatens Fines and Jail Time for Misusing Belize’s National Symbols

The Government of Belize is expected to introduce the National Symbols Bill, 2025, which aims to formally establish and regulate the use of Belize’s national symbols. The bill outlines legal protections for key national emblems, including the national flag, national anthem, coat of arms, and other designated symbols such as the black orchid (national flower), keel-billed toucan (national bird), and Baird’s tapir (national animal).

Under the proposed law, the copyright for the national anthem, national flag, and coat of arms will be vested in the government, meaning their use will be strictly controlled. Any business or individual wishing to reproduce or sell items featuring these symbols will be required to obtain a government licence. However, educational and religious institutions, as well as official ceremonies, will be exempt from this requirement.

The bill also criminalises the unauthorised use and defacement of national symbols. Individuals who misuse or sell unlicensed representations of the National Flag or Coat of Arms.

Unauthorized commercial use, sale, or display of Belize’s National Flag or Coat of Arms without a government-issued license will be punishable by a $1,000 fine or up to one year in prison. Licensed users who violate their permit conditions will face similar penalties. Additionally, mutilating, defacing, or altering the National Flag or Coat of Arms without legal authority is also an offense, carrying the same penalties. For ongoing violations, offenders may be fined $100 per day until compliance is met.

Additionally, the bill grants the Minister of Culture the authority to make regulations on the proper use of the National Flag, imposition of royalties on commercial use of national symbols, and preservation of the National Flower in public spaces.

Businesses currently using national symbols will have a six-month grace period to comply with the new licensing requirements.

The National Symbols Bill, 2025, if passed, will create a legal framework to protect Belize’s national identity, ensuring respectful and appropriate use of its symbols while generating revenue for their continued promotion and preservation.