In our rapidly changing climate, access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment is now considered a fundamental human right. Belize is no exception to this reality, and it's time for us to join countries that have pushed for the inclusion of environmental rights in their constitutions.
This movement calls for more robust environmental legislation, stricter enforcement of existing measures, and increased public participation in governance. Belizeans have been urged to make their voices heard, ensuring that this process leads to greater institutional transparency, equal access to opportunities, and rights protection.
When 22,090 Belizean voters demanded the right to be consulted through a referendum if the government considers ending the ban on offshore oil exploration, the government heard! This action highlighted the citizens' desire to be involved in decision-making processes for significant development projects in Belize.
With the People's Constitution Commission finalizing its recommendations to the Cabinet, now is the time to support Oceana's Constitutional Reform campaign. Join the movement to amplify the call for people-powered governance!
PETITION LETTER
Dear Belizean Parliamentarians,
I am writing today to voice my support for the substantive right to a healthy and quality environment to be included in the Constitution, well beyond the Preamble, as part of the fundamental rights and freedoms of Belizeans. It should be clear that the right is obligatory. To do any less is to further undermine the environment’s ability to support national economic stability, quality of life, cultural identity and quality of future. I therefore stand in solidarity with the tens of thousands of proudly patriotic Belizeans who have maintained that we should have the right to participate in meaningful consultation and decision-making processes.
It is also my firm belief that due consideration of the public’s input and access to information and justice should be included in the Constitution to respect documented national interest in meaningful consultation and informed decision-making processes via transparent and accountable mechanisms. At a time when advocates and activists are threatened with increasing levels of violence, these changes to the Constitution would respect the sensational people power of Belizeans.
Collectively, this type of reform will also help to ensure there is transparency and accountability on these issues affecting the environment well into the future.
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