The Mexico-Belize Border: Challenges and Opportunities

Of all Mexico’s borders, the one it shares with Belize has been the least problematic in recent decades, due to its limited extension, the small populations that live on either side and the lack of trade between both nations. Indubitably, it is also Mexico’s least-known border, despite more than 25 years of bilateral relations since Belize gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1981. This period has been characterized by friendly relations based on cooperation and a good neighbor policy. Although existing border controls are virtually ineffectual and migrants pass easily from one country to the other, no serious problems have been encountered to date, due to the ties of friendship that have been established by populations on either side. In this article, Jorge Luis Hidalgo takes a look at the history of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Belize from the 19th century right up to current days, with a view to gaining a better understanding of this bilateral relationship on the threshold of the 21st century. Historically, this region has been affected by key events, such as the Caste War and the territorial dispute between Belize and Guatemala, which produced movements of migrants and flows of trade. It should be noted that Mexico was the first nation to acknowledge Belize as an independent nation and the first to post a high-ranking diplomatic representative there. Ever since, the diplomatic relationship has gone from strength to strength. Assistance and cooperation programs have flourished and Mexico has set up cultural and educational institutions in Belize, in addition to providing heath care assistance and scholarships for exchange students, not to mention organizing numerous cultural and artistic events. The author discusses some of the opportunities for strengthening existing ties of friendship between Mexico and Belize in the short and medium terms, including the exchange of know-how. Hidalgo Castellanos believes that the main challenge facing us in the immediate future is to increase trade and improve economic relations with Belize, and consolidate cooperation in cultural and educational spheres, without neglecting the solid diplomatic relationship that has already been forged. Finally, Mexico would be advised to review the potential threat this small border represents to national security, where almost negligible control makes it vulnerable to terrorism and organized crime.