Refugee surge creates Belize security fears

Subject

Belize migration and security.

Significance

High levels of gang-related violence, and a tougher approach to migration in the United States, have sparked a surge in refugees seeking to enter Belize from the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. However, Belizean authorities are reluctant to receive them, citing concerns about the potential for increased gang activity.

Impacts

• Belize’s location could see it become an important transit point in the international drug trade.
• There is potential for conflict between Central American and Belizean gangs.
• Costa Rica’s strong institutions make it relatively well equipped to deal with an influx of refugees.