The Government of Belize and UNICEF partner to produce a groundbreaking Situational Analysis on Children with Disabilities

BELMOPAN, 10 December 2024 - As the international community commemorates World Human Rights Day, the Ministry of Human Development, in partnership with UNICEF, has initiated the development of a Situational Analysis on Children with Disabilities (SitAn). This effort is aligned with Belize's commitment to the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the recently signed National Disabilities Act.

Globally, approximately 240 million children live with some form of disability. In Belize, data from the 2022 Census indicates that approximately 5,631 children are living with some form of disability. Yet, they remain one of the most underserved and invisible populations.

The SitAn will provide a comprehensive framework to analyze the conditions and challenges faced by children with disabilities. It aims to uncover critical data gaps, identify barriers to inclusion, and guide the development of evidence-based policies and programs that foster an inclusive society. The SitAn will include consultations with children with disabilities, their families, and community stakeholders so that the voices of children and their caregivers can inform the development of actionable, targeted interventions.

Minister Dolores Balderamos Garcia, emphasized the Government's dedication to this initiative, stating:

"Inclusion is not just an ideal; it is a necessity. The Situational Analysis on Children with Disabilities represents a significant step toward creating a Belize that embraces and empowers every child. Together will UNICEF, we are developing evidence-based solutions to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, can reach their full potential."

Alison Parker, UNICEF Representative to Belize, highlighted the importance of data in driving meaningful change:

"Data is a powerful tool for transformation. By understanding who these children are and the challenges they face, we can create actionable policies and targeted programs that eliminate barriers and foster true inclusion. UNICEF is committed to partnering with the Government of Belize to ensure every child is seen, counted, and included."

With over ten years since the last SitAn in 2013; this analysis is a pivotal tool to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure we leave no one behind supporting children with disabilities as the most vulnerable population.

The Government of Belize and UNICEF urge all stakeholders—including policymakers, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), academic institutions, and development partners—to unite in building a more inclusive society where every child is seen, counted, included and given every opportunity to survive and thrive.

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