Belize to Establish National Human Rights Institution in 2026

The Office of the Ombudsman has announced that the country will begin the process of establishing a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) in 2026. The development, revealed in an official Human Rights Day statement, marks what could become one of Belize’s most important governance and accountability reforms in decades. The announcement comes as the Ombudsman’s Office reflected on its work over the past three years, noting efforts to strengthen administrative justice, promote fairness across public institutions, and safeguard the rights of all Belizeans and visitors, particularly the most vulnerable.  According to the release, procedural arrangements for the NHRI are still being finalized, but the initiative will be integrated within the Office of the Ombudsman and advanced with support from international partners. The Ombudsman described the move as “a transformative step” that will fortify Belize’s human rights architecture, expand access to justice, and enhance compliance with global governance standards.  Human Rights Day, observed worldwide on December 10, provided the backdrop for the announcement. The Office emphasized that human rights must be actively protected and upheld daily, rather than treated as abstract principles.  Major Retired Herman Gilbert Swaso, Ombudsman of Belize, expressed gratitude to civil society, community advocates, state agencies, and international organizations for their ongoing collaboration. Their partnership, he said, remains essential as Belize moves toward a more robust and inclusive human rights system.  With the groundwork set for 2026, Belize now stands at the threshold of establishing a formal national institution dedicated to monitoring, promoting, and protecting human rights.