Government Pushes for Constitutional Changes to Tackle Crime

In response to rising gun violence and gang activity, the Belizean government is proposing constitutional amendments to strengthen legal tools for combating crime. The proposed changes include the establishment of a specialized Gun and Gang Court and the expansion of state authority in designated 'special areas.' These amendments are partly driven by conflicting High Court rulings on a 2020 state of emergency, creating legal uncertainties. The government plans to appeal these decisions, with the case scheduled for hearing in March 2026 during the next session of the Court of Appeal.