The tropical country of Belize borders the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala and Mexico. With a population of 390,000, the country geographically consists of four main regions located in Central America. It also contains the second largest ocean barrier reef in the world.
English remains the official language of Belize. However, another common language in Belize is Kriol, also known as Belizean Creole. Other languages spoken in this country include Garifuna, Mandarin, Spanish and Maya. Belize was the UK's last colony on the Central American continent and still maintains strong ties with Great Britain through politics, finances, and trade. It did not attain independence until 1981, which is a major reason English remains the official language. English is the primary language spoken in public education, government and most media outlets. However, the majority of Belizeans, speak Kriol during most informal, social and interethnic dialogue. Nevertheless, Belize, like the U.K is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, and is still a state governed under Queen Elisabeth II, making it a popular outlet for British and American students, tourists and locals.
The quality of education in Belize is provided by the government but there are some private institutions. The country’s literacy rate was estimated at 79.7% in 2010, one of the lowest in western hemisphere. However, because of the English influence and similar curriculum within education systems, many parents from neighboring countries such as Mexico and Guatemala, parents often send their kids to Belize for English education in hopes for a better future in America.
Mary Hynes, Fall 2018
Location
Belize is a small nation tucked among Mexico’s and Guatemala’s borders. It is located in Central America and borders the Caribbean Sea. This location allows Belize to be a great port for trading as well as a tropical destination for tourists.
Demographics
Most Belizeans are of multiracial descent. About 34% of the population is of mixed Mayan and European descent (Mestizo), 35% are Kriols, about 10.6% are Mayan, and about 6.1% are Afro-Amerindian (Garifuna). The remaining population includes European, East Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and North American groups.