Key Figures

Chief of State:
King Charles III represented by Governor Froyla Tzalam
Head of Government:
Prime Minister Juan Antonio Briceno

Overview

Government Name:
Belize
Constitution:
Adopted: 1981; Discusses basics of the state and constitution, citizens rights, and structure of government and leaders.
Government Type:
Parliamentary Democracy and a Commonwealth Realm
Belize Flag
Coat of Arms of Belize

Index of Economic Freedom

Grades each country on a scale of 0 to 100, based on ten freedoms, with 100 representing the greatest amount of economic autonomy from government intervention. Source: Heritage Foundation (2023)

Country Risk Rating

There is no Country Risk Rating for Belize

Government Branches

Main Powers Election Process Election Cycle 1
Executive

The king/governor-general is the chief of state representing the commonwealth for ceremonies and appoints the cabinet via advice of the prime minister. The prime minister advises the governor-general on the executive duties of the government.

The role of king is hereditary. He appoints the governor-general, who, in turn, appoints the prime minister.

Governor-General: at His Majesty's discretion; Prime Minister: 5 years

Judicial

Responsible for interpreting and upholding the constitution when conflicts arise, and determining all cases as the most supreme court.

Appointed by governor-general upon advice of prime minister and parliament.

Mandatory retirement age of 75

Legislative

Responsible for passing legislature for the peace, order, and good government of Belize.

The senate comprises 12 members who are appointed by the governor-general. The house of representatives comprises 31 seats elected by plurality vote in single-member constituencies.

5 years

Regional Trade Blocs

International Organization Participation [2]

Environmental Agreements [3]

Tax Information [2]

Tax Authority:
Information not available
Tax Name:
Information not available

Sources:

  1. ElectionGuide http://www.electionguide.org/
  2. EY, http://www.ey.com
  3. CIA World Factbook, https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/
  4. U.S. Bilateral Relations Fact Sheets http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/