ICJ schedules 2027 hearings for Belize territorial disputes

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has scheduled oral hearings for two significant territorial cases involving Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.

The first set of hearings, concerning Guatemala’s territorial, insular, and maritime claim against Belize, is set to take place from February 22 to February 26, 2027. This case was initiated by mutual agreement between both nations in 2019 to reach a definitive resolution of their border dispute.

The second set of hearings, scheduled for March 1 to March 5, 2027, concerns sovereignty over the Sapodilla Cayes (Cayes Zapotillos). This is an independent process originally brought by Belize against Honduras in 2022. Guatemala will participate in these proceedings as an intervening party, having been authorized by the court to provide legal observations regarding its interests in the area.

Following the oral arguments, the Court is expected to deliberate and issue a formal resolution for both matters.