Statistical Institute of Belize hosts sensitization session on draft National Data and Statistical Systems Act

By Zoila Palma:  Today, the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) held a one-day sensitization session for data-producing agencies within the National Statistical System (NSS) to review the draft National Data and Statistical Systems Act, 2026.

The session, held at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize City, brought together senior representatives who examined key provisions of the proposed legislation and provided feedback before it is finalized.

The draft Act seeks to address a gap in Belize’s existing legal framework. While the SIB currently operates under the Statistical Institute of Belize Act, there is no comprehensive legislation governing the wider National Statistical System. The proposed law would establish a unified framework for agencies involved in producing official data, with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the KOICA-funded “Enabling of Belize’s Statistical System” project.

The proposed legislation aims to strengthen cooperation and coordination among data-producing agencies while clearly defining their roles and responsibilities within the National Statistical System. It also includes provisions governing the production, sharing, protection and use of data for statistical purposes, reflecting changes in the data environment and the growing demand for timely and reliable official statistics.

During the session, participants received presentations on the background and key provisions of the draft Act before taking part in small-group discussions. Officials reviewed the proposed changes in relation to their agencies, identified areas requiring clarification and made recommendations, which were later discussed in a plenary session.

The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session and discussions on the next steps toward finalizing the proposed legislation.

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