By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) continues to prioritize visitor safety as it advances its National Tourism Security Strategy, hosting a high-level summit this week to discuss ways to enhance security within the country’s tourism sector by 2026.
The summit brought together key national partners, including the Belize Police Department, Belize Defence Force (BDF), and Belize Coast Guard, to review existing challenges and propose solutions aimed at ensuring Belize remains a safe and trusted destination for travelers worldwide.
Herman Blease, BTB’s Security Specialist, said the focus is on addressing the issues that threaten the tourism industry, from illegal tour operations to safety lapses. “We have a lot of issues to address, and even one major incident can ripple through the entire economy,” Blease explained.
Nicole Usher, CEO of the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized that security directly impacts tourism performance. “Safety and security are central to tourism development,” she said. “When visitors feel safe, they not only come to Belize—they stay longer, spend more, and help our economy grow.”
The BTB’s collaboration with national security forces has already shown progress. Lt. Col. Jermaine Burns of the BDF highlighted that closer coordination between the army and BTB has improved responses to tourism-related security incidents.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Bart Jones added that the Police Department has refined its approach to policing within the tourism sector, focusing not just on law enforcement but also on hospitality and visitor engagement.
Representatives from international embassies also participated, providing additional guidance on managing emergencies involving foreign visitors.
The BTB’s long-term goal is to fully implement its National Tourism Security Strategy by 2026, reinforcing Belize’s image as a safe, welcoming, and world-class tourism destination.
