New BELPRI report examines money and political financing in Belize

The Belize Policy Research Institute at the University of Belize (BELPRI) is preparing to launch a new report examining the role of money in Belizean politics and the longstanding absence of comprehensive political-finance legislation.  The report, titled Money in Belizean Politics: Breaking the Regulation Deadlock, will be officially presented on Tuesday, July 28, at ten o’clock in the morning in the Blue Room at the Belize City House of Culture.  According to BELPRI-UB, the study provides an independent assessment of the implications of Belize’s political-finance regulatory gap and proposes policy recommendations suited to the country’s political environment. The institute notes that, despite decades of advocacy and commitments from political parties, Belize still does not have comprehensive legislation governing political parties and campaign financing.  Ivorine Bulwer, who spoke about the report, referenced Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a focal point in considering the connection between citizens’ basic needs, their economic circumstances and the wider political system.

Ivorine Bulwer, UB Belpri: “I think it’s a combination of collective variables to strategically decide that we’re going to look at all these factors as Diana had spoken about search. You know, we have to look at research and gather these data, empower individuals to come up and decide they are going to speak but it is not dependent on just to say I want that information. I think there is a multiple factor that has to be taken into consideration. Structure, people needs, individual self-awareness because on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs it can be low because of housing, food , whatever that they become active participants in that bacon house thing. And it could be persons on the higher level with the means but at the same time want want want want more. And at the same time you have got to look at your accountability to yourself, to your nation and at the same time to your community. So I feel it is something that can be addressed it needs maybe spoken but it’s something that can be addressed.”

The launch is open to the public, but registration is required by July 24. The full report is expected to become available on the day of the event. Those seeking additional information may contact the Belize Policy Research Institute at the University of Belize.