Belize faces accountability gaps amid absence of Ombudsman

Belize remains without an Ombudsman eight months after a separation between the government and former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso. The institution faces challenges regarding limited enforcement powers, scarce resources, and a dependence on the administration it is tasked with holding accountable.

Proposals have been made to strengthen the office to rebuild public trust and address instances of maladministration. Examples of potential cases for the office include investigating police misconduct and injustices caused by government entities.