Belize is doing poorly in addressing human trafficking - or so says the United state. That's what the US State Department's annual Trafficking in Persons report 2015 concludes. The report outlines the accomplishments and the failures of 188 countries in prosecuting traffickers and protecting victims. But, they say Belize failed to do both - and is now ranked as tier 3 country. Countries that do the most to fight human trafficking are listed in Tier 1, and the least in Tier 3.
The report begins by stating, quote, "The Government of Belize does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so". It goes on by saying that not only did the Government of Belize fail to thoroughly investigate and prosecute trafficking offenses over the years but also that Belize neglected to enforce prevention and protection efforts for victims. The report delves into the major gaps and discrepancies in the law - focusing on the lack of oversight of the police during bar and nightclub raids - stating that proper screening of women for trafficking indicators or signs is not done.
The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is not taking it lightly. She bristles at the reports conclusion that there were "no convictions during the reporting period", but says that in reality it is that "there are no cases being brought by the police which means no prosecutions and no convictions.
We'll have more on this tomorrow.
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