By Belize Live News Staff: The Senate has given full support to an amendment to the marriage bill that officially bans child marriage in Belize. The bill, which had already been passed by the House of Representatives, gained bipartisan approval and was also endorsed by social partners. The Leader of Government Business, Eamon Courtenay, emphasized that this move reflects Belize’s commitment to protecting human rights and promoting equality.
“It is the position of the members of the Senate and the government of Belize that this bill is important and transformative. It reflects the Belizean people’s interest in modernizing our laws to ensure equality before the law,” Courtenay stated. He noted that child marriage and early unions should no longer be permissible, aligning Belize’s laws with evolving societal values and constitutional protections.
UDP Senator Michael Peyrefitte also voiced his support, highlighting the importance of age and autonomy in marriage decisions. “Marriage is a serious act that should be entered into only with full understanding and consent. At the age of 18, individuals are recognized as adults, fully capable of making these life-changing decisions for themselves,” he explained.
Senator Glenfield Dennison praised the legislative progress, referencing the historical shifts in Belize’s age of consent laws. He applauded the collaborative effort and dedication of all parties involved in making this change, which he described as a necessary step forward in safeguarding the rights of young individuals.
This legislation is celebrated as a milestone in protecting the rights of children and promoting equality, as Belize takes a firm stance against child marriage.
