BELMOPAN, Belize, Dec 6, CMC – Belize is to benefit from two new projects designed to promote inclusive socio-economic development of southern Belize, and to increase the capacities of government Institutions responsible for integrated border control planning and management.
The European Union (EU) in partnership with the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have signed two grant agreements totalling Euro 7.5 million (One Euro=US$01.29 cents) underscoring the longstanding partnership between the United Nations system and the European Union in reducing barriers to inclusive and sustainable socioeconomic development in Belize.
UN Resident Coordinator for Belize and El Salvador, Raul Salazar said that the partnership between the European Union and the United Nations is rooted in shared principles of multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development.
“This partnership through two new projects with ILO and IOM demonstrates our strong and collective commitment to support vulnerable communities and impact livelihoods in Belize,” Salazar said.
The EU Ambassador to Belize, Dr. Erja Askola, said she was pleased to be in Belize for the first time and witness such an important milestone of the EU partnership with Belize.
“This will have a significant transformational potential for new economic prospects in Belize, especially the southern and border areas. Our common objective is to promote inclusive development, reduce inequalities and stimulate sustainable economic growth. We will also support the strengthening of border management, security and trade facilitation capacities at land and maritime borders, which are all key priorities for Belize,” she added.
The Participation, Ownership, and Sustainable Progress for Economic Resilience (PROSPER) project, which is a four-year initiative focused on the southern district of Toledo.
By promoting sustainable local economic development with an emphasis on women and young persons, PROSPER will empower rural communities to build economic resilience, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance skills development in a participatory approach.
The total project budget is Euro 4.2 million nd the project was signed by Joni Musabayana, Director, ILO Decent Work Team, Caribbean.
Meanehile, the Effective and Sustainable Management of Belize’s Western and Southern Border project which aims to enhance border management, security, and cross-border facilitation and cooperation at Belize’s southern and western borders through adopting a comprehensive Integrated Border Management (IBM) approach.
Developing a National Strategy for Integrated Border Management and updating of Conservation and Protected Areas Management Plans for the effective protection of forests in the south and western border areas.
It will also build the capacity among border enforcement agencies and conservation agencies, providing equipment to effectively carry out their responsibilities. The total project budget is Euro 3.3 million and the project was signed by Diana Locke, Head of Office, IOM Belize.
“Together, both projects represent key contributions to the Government’s Medium-term Development Strategy 2022-2026 and will be implemented in close coordination with civil society and local stakeholders.
“The two new projects reflect the continued deep commitment of the European Union and United Nations to foster inclusive development and address socioeconomic challenges in Belize to leave no one behind,” the government said in a statement.
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