Belize Advances Towards Inclusive and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems

The first national consultation on the “Early Warnings for All” (EW4All) initiative marked a key step in assessing the current state of early warning systems in Belize and identifying gaps that will inform the development of a concrete national roadmap. This plan will guide the country towards accessible, inclusive, and multi-hazard early warning systems that go beyond meteorological risks and incorporate a broader range of threats.

Held from May 5 to 7, the consultation was convened by the Government of Belize, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, and partners such as the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The meeting enabled the consolidation of a national diagnosis of gaps and opportunities, as well as the outlining of pillars and areas for improvement that will shape a coordinated national strategy.

“Let this workshop be the starting point for a renewed national commitment: where we strengthen our multi-hazard early warning systems, mobilize the necessary financial and human resources, and align our efforts with ongoing initiatives. ‘Early Warnings for All’ should not be just a vision of the United Nations—it must be Belize’s vision. Together, with knowledge, partnerships, and willpower, we can build a more resilient and inclusive Belize for future generations,” stated Carlos Pol, Executive Director of the Ministry of Economic Development, on behalf of Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño.

This national process is supported by a set of complementary initiatives. Among them is the development of the Country Work Programme (CWP), led by the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) with support from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), which defines risk management priorities for the next four years. The Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) project—jointly implemented by UNDRR and WMO—enhances the enabling environment for these systems. These efforts are further complemented by Belize’s active participation in the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative.

“We recognize the strong commitment of the Government of Belize to disaster risk reduction, clearly reflected in the development of the CWP and its focus on inclusive and integrated early warning systems,” said Nahuel Arenas, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for the Americas and the Caribbean. “At UNDRR, we reaffirm our support to work alongside local governments in strengthening resilience and protection for all people,” he added.

The consultation also served as a platform to launch the joint programme of the Joint SDG Fund titled “Inclusive Resilience in Safe and Smart Spaces in Belize,” implemented by UN Women and UNDRR, in partnership with the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government. The programme focuses on urban resilience, gender equality, and community safety, promoting safe and smart spaces and the development of inclusive local resilience plans for Belize City.

The launch began with the official ceremony of Belize City’s accession to the MCR2030 initiative. During the event, Mayor Bernard Wagner formally handed over the signed letter of commitment to the UNDRR Regional Chief, thus marking the city’s incorporation into this global network and reinforcing its commitment to building a safer and more resilient urban future.

“Our participation in MCR2030 goes beyond symbolism. It is a clear statement that Belize City is committed to a future where safety, preparedness, sustainability, and inclusive urban development are not optional, but essential,” declared Mayor Bernard Wagner.

“This effort aims to ensure that more people—especially in the most vulnerable communities—receive timely alerts and know how to respond,” said Henry Charles Usher, Minister of the Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management.

Beyond reports and diagnostics, the true impact of these initiatives will be measured by their ability to save lives and protect livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable communities and among historically excluded groups.

“Belize’s commitment to linking national policies with concrete local actions is an encouraging step towards the goals of the Sendai Framework. This progress reminds us that when we work in coordination and keep people at the center, resilience is not only possible—it is real,” stated Raúl Salazar, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Belize and El Salvador.

Resilience is more than a policy—it is a daily practice that requires coordination, evidence, participation, and political will. On this path, Belize and El Salvador recognize each other as natural partners. What is learned in one context can—and should—strengthen action in the other.