Belmopan, April 30, 2026.
The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Immigration, Governance and Labour, participated in the Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Labour of Central America and the Dominican Republic (CMT-CARD) held on April 23, 2026, in Panama City.
Belize was represented by Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Immigration, Governance and Labour, accompanied by Mr. Rudy Ake, Senior Labour Officer. The delegation actively engaged in discussions on key regional labour priorities and contributed to advancing a coordinated approach to the challenges facing the world of work.
The meeting brought together Ministers of Labour and technical representatives from across the region to review progress under the CMT-CARD Action Plan 2025–2027 and strengthen regional cooperation. Discussions focused on labour market development, labour inspection systems, labour migration, and institutional strengthening.
Ministers also examined emerging issues impacting the labour market, including the effects of digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, as well as the continued need to address child labour, particularly in vulnerable communities.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Ministers adopted a declaration reaffirming their commitment to strengthening regional collaboration, advancing decent work, and promoting inclusive and resilient labour markets. The declaration also emphasized the importance of resource mobilization, technical cooperation, and coordinated action to address shared labour challenges.
Belize joined its regional counterparts in endorsing the declaration and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing policies that promote decent work, strengthen labour institutions, and protect vulnerable groups.
The meeting was convened under the Pro Tempore Presidency of Panama and builds on previous ministerial agreements, including those adopted in Punta Cana, which continue to guide the regional labour agenda.
The Government of Belize remains committed to active participation in regional initiatives that support sustainable development, improved labour conditions, and economic opportunity for all.
Ends
For more information, please contact:
Mrs. Rissela Dominguez-Patt
Labour Commissioner
Labour Department
Ministry of Immigration, Governance and Labour
Email: Labour.Comm@labour.gov.bz
Tel: (+501) 828-4276
