By Belize Live News Staff: Belize has enacted the Disabilities Act, a landmark law mandating accessibility in public buildings and transportation, marking a significant step forward for disability rights in the country. The legislation was signed into law by the Governor General to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The Act requires public spaces and services to implement necessary adjustments, such as ramps and elevators, to ensure access for persons with disabilities. Existing premises have 12 months to comply, with penalties for non-compliance.
“This is a transformative moment,” said Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Minister of Human Development, who led the legislative efforts. Garcia recalled a moment when a disabled woman struggled to access the National Assembly. “Seeing her drag herself into the chamber was a turning point for all of us,” she said.
The government has already begun implementing changes, including installing ramps at the Ladyville police station. However, Garcia stressed that the Act aims for practical solutions rather than immediate overhauls. “We are not asking businesses to make drastic renovations but to prioritize accessibility wherever possible,” she said.
Major corporations, including Bowen and Bowen, are being urged to conduct accessibility reviews to ensure compliance. The Act balances the need for inclusivity with practical timelines to ease the transition for businesses.
This legislation, the first of its kind in Belize, reflects the government’s broader commitment to promoting equality and inclusion for all citizens. “This isn’t just about awareness,” Garcia added. “It’s about action—making Belize a nation where everyone can thrive.”
