Belize

Belize is a Central American nation with a small, ethnically heterogeneous population of nearly 400,000 people. Formerly known as British Honduras, it officially changed its name in 1973 and formally gained independence from the British Crown in 1981. At only 8,867 square miles, Belize is a relatively compact country with a high level of biodiversity and subtropical climate. This unique combination, as well as the country’s easy accessibility from North America and official use of the English language, has made it not only a vacation destination but also a haven for expatriates from around the world. This entry provides a brief history of Belize; describes the relationship among tourism, the economy, and media; discusses issues related to press freedom; and then explores Belize’s media outlets ...