The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, through its Community Rehabilitation Department (CRD), in collaboration with the Belize Police Department (BPD) and with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the European Union-funded PACE Justice Project, today hosted the National Police Leadership Diversion Workshop at Hidden Hall by Oasis in Belmopan.
The workshop brought together senior police officers, including the Commissioner of Police, Superintendents, and Officers Commanding various police formations, to strengthen their understanding of youth diversion and its application at the police station level.
Youth diversion allows eligible young people under the age of 18 who come into conflict with the law to be referred to the Community Rehabilitation Department for structured rehabilitation and support programmes instead of being formally charged. These programmes, typically lasting three to six months, may include counselling, life skills development, mentorship, and referrals to community-based organizations, depending on the young person’s needs and the nature of the offence.
The workshop featured welcome remarks by Mrs. Ganesha Smith, Acting Director of CRD; special remarks by Mr. Michael Lund, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative; and a keynote address by Commissioner of Police Dr. Richard Rosado.
Facilitated by Attorney-at-Law Diana Shaw, the workshop examined the legal framework for diversion, institutional responsibilities, and proposed updates to police and court diversion protocols. Participants also engaged in discussions and group activities to review and validate procedures aimed at strengthening the consistent application of diversion.
The workshop forms part of the ongoing Police Diversion Training Campaign under the National Diversion Program and follows consultations on the 2026 Revised National Diversion Protocol. The initiative seeks to strengthen coordination between the CRD and the Belize Police Department while reinforcing the important role of police leadership in ensuring that eligible young people are appropriately considered for diversion.
Youth diversion is not about removing accountability. It is about providing young people with the guidance, support, and opportunity to learn from their mistakes and make better choices.
Through continued collaboration with the Belize Police Department and development partners, the Ministry remains committed to strengthening a child-centered justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation, accountability, and second chances.
The post National Police Leadership workshop strengthens youth diversion efforts appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, through its Community Rehabilitation Department (CRD), in collaboration with the Belize Police Department (BPD) and with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the European Union-funded PACE Justice Project, today hosted the National Police Leadership Diversion Workshop at Hidden Hall by Oasis in
The post National Police Leadership workshop strengthens youth diversion efforts appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
