Belize in 2005

Belize in 2005

Area: 22,965 sq km (8,867 sq mi)
Population (2005 est.): 291,000
Capital: Belmopan
Chief of state: Queen Elizabeth II, represented by Governor-General Sir Colville Young
Head of government:Prime Minister Said Musa

Concern about grave failures in government management of Belize’s finances, which had been a primary concern in 2004, continued with full force in 2005. During the first half of the year, the government entered into a historic agreement with social partners—made up of members of labour unions, the private sector, and churches—to provide greater transparency in its management of public finances. Accusing the government of duplicity in the implementation of this agreement, however, the labour unions mounted unprecedented strikes that paralyzed the country for more than a week in late April. Telephone company employees and teachers were among the most visible groups to strike. Also contributing to the unrest among Belizeans during the year were crippling increases in the cost of fuel, a spike in criminal activity, and dropping prices for sugar and bananas, two of the country’s chief exports.

Despite the civil unrest, some notable cultural gains were witnessed in Belize in 2005. Aided by support from volunteers and the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), several groups promoted a revival of interest in poetry, music, dance, and folklore. A long-awaited new national museum, located in Belmopan and administered by the NICH, was nearing completion.

by: Joseph O. Palacio