Belize National Anti-Drug Strategy

2000-2004

FOREWORD In every society that grapples with the debilitating effect of illict drugs there is the same crisis. Though it is played out differently from city to city, the motivation is the same: To live cleaner, saner lives.

In Belize that hope is expressed through the National Drug Abuse Control Council, this document, and most encouragingly, the community's will to power. It is out of this community's wellspring of conviction that the Council and this document draw their conviction, because as the adage goes, if we can dream it, we can become it.

And what do we dream? It is not a utopian fantasy of a state without greed or desperation. It is the vision of a state founded on firm moral ground and steeped in the determination to forge a new identity based on the principles of education, awareness, mutuality, collective responsibility and the rule of law and order.

This document is an expression of that will. It is the marshal in the forward column of progress, where the community, the media, law enforcement personnel, health and rehabilitation professionals, and government are advancing irreversibly towards the shared goal of this renewed society.

I invite you to share in this revolution of rising expectations and increased possibility. This document is an expression of the best wishes of all of us, and it is constantly morphing to meet the new challenges.

Jules Vasquez, Chairman National Drug Abuse Control Council November, 1999

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The National Anti-Drug Strategy for Belize is based on a five-year integrated approach.

It aims to reduce demand and supply, and to alleviate the consequences associated with illicit drug use and trafficking. It proposes strategies encompassing the areas of research and diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation, law enforcement, and prevention and education.

This strategy has been developed by the National Drug Abuse Control Council (NDACC) with the assistance of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD). It has a multisectoral focus developed with the input and participation of more than 40 participants in a four-day strategy elaboration workshop held in the first week of September 1999

The National Anti-drug Strategy for Belize begins by examining the social and economic

situation of Belize. It then presents an analysis of the illicit drug problem and its effects. This is followed by the critical evaluation of the methods being applied. This section which was generated by the various working groups at the strategy elaboration workshop identifies policies, establishes strategies and develops projects to be carried out during the five-year period of the strategy. The legal framework reviews the various laws that regulate the supply and demand of drugs as well as the treaties and multilateral and bilateral conventions, which Belize has signed. The institutional framework highlights the agencies that are involved in the elaboration of the strategy. The section on follow-up and evaluation explores the mechanisms to be used in monitoring the strategy while the request for financing section suggests some strategies that Belize will use to solicit funding for the implementation of the National Anti-drug Strategy.

The main objectives of the strategy include the following:

1. The collaboration and cooperation of agencies involved in demand and supply reduction

nationally, regionally and internationally in the implementation of the strategy. 2. The establishment of epidemiological baseline which will be updated periodically and

referred to continually to rationalize the targeting of resources. 3. The establishment of national facilities and the improvement of existing facilities in the

area of drug treatment and rehabilitation. 4. The reduction of demand, availability, and trafficking rates by 50% over a five year

period. 5. Opportunities will be provided to enhance the capacities of the various ministries and

agencies involved in drug prevention education.

INTRODUCTION

The scourge of drugs has caused serious health problems and severe social decline in the Belizean society. It has led to the associated crimes of murders, robberies and rampant violence that threaten the traditional peace and well being of the nation. In addition youths, students and entire family units suffer as a result of illicit drug use and addiction. Money laundering also poses a major threat to the country’s economy and has the potential to undermine constitutional democracy.

Belize recognizes that it cannot combat the drug problem alone. Therefore Belize is prepared to cooperate fully with regional and international efforts aimed at curbing this illicit trade. Belize will act resolutely in dealing with criminals who sell drugs, those who facilitate transshipment, money laundering, and the illicit cultivation of drugs in Belize. Additionally, Belize will undertake health and education programs that will reduce demand thereby improving the health and safety of its people and repair the wreckage in its communities.

The illicit drug trade is a relatively new phenomenon to Belize. Large-scale marijuana cultivation for export to the USA started in the northern districts of Corozal and Orange Walk in the mid-1960’s. The drug cultivation was a direct response to the decline of sugar prices on the world market. Sugar cane growers had found an alternative cash crop to help them pay off existing debts. The marijuana industry proved to be much more lucrative and financially rewarding than sugarcane and became a major economic activity of the northern districts. The Southern districts soon (1970’s) followed the example of the North.

Other factors contributing to the further expansion of the marijuana industry in Belize are as follows: Belize’s strategic location in the transshipment route,

Inadequate law enforcement resources, Ready access to the cheap labor of Central American refugees who work on the marijuana plantations, Open borders and large tracts of unpopulated areas.

Aerial eradication operations in the mid 1980’s conducted jointly by USA and Belize

reduced marijuana cultivation to a controllable level. With the decline of marijuana production, drug traffickers shifted their activities to facilitating the transshipment of cocaine. Belize therefore became a very important link in the transshipment route between the producing countries in the South and the consuming countries of the North. Drug transshipment activities have now evolved into large-scale operations by land, sea and air utilizing highly sophisticated technology to avoid detection.

In continuing to combat this major problem Belize is committed to the total eradication of drug trafficking in the country.

This strategic plan document is an expression of that will. It mobilizes the combined forces of the community, the health, education and rehabilitation professionals, law enforcement, the media and the government in advancing irreversibly toward this shared goal.

The National Anti-Drug Strategy is based on a five-year integrated approach. It aims to reduce demand and supply of drugs by 50%, during the next five years, and to alleviate the consequences associated with drug use and trafficking. It proposes strategies encompassing the areas of research and diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation, law enforcement and prevention and education.

This strategy has been developed by the National Drug Abuse Control Council with the assistance of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD). It has a multi sectoral focus developed with the input and participation of more than 40 participants in a four-day strategy elaboration workshop held in the first week of September 1999. The participants represented the following:

Ministry of Education & Sports Council of Churches Legal Profession Non-government Organizations Ministry of Transport & Communication Ministry of Trade, Commerce & Industry Ministry of National Security & Immigration Ministry of Finance Rehabilitation & Treatment Centers National Drug Abuse Control Council Private Sector In November of 1998 the National Drug Abuse Control Council was rejuvenated and

charged with the responsibility to produce this anti-drug strategy within a year. This National Drug Abuse Control Council (NDACC) was established by the Government of Belize in 1988 and empowered to carry out functions associated with the demand, supply, distribution and control of licit and illicit drugs by the Misuse of Drugs Act No. 22 1990. The vision of NDACC is to promote a drug-free Belize. To this end NDACC advises the Government of Belize on drug related matters and serves as a coordinating body for agencies implementing drug demand and supply reduction programs. It also acts as an advisory body to all government ministries directly involved in drug issues and serves as the coordinating agency dealing with both demand and supply reduction programs.

To implement the strategy Belize will seek to consolidate support from regional and international communities to augment its limited national resources. This support is critical for the development of the national capacity to reduce the consumption and ultimately to eradicate the use of illicit drugs. “It is time for serious action. The task is urgent and the choice is clear: stamp out illicit drugs and its violence. Belize’s commitment is firm and total. The Belizean people have

demanded that we make Belize drug free. Let us re-intensify the work to make all our territories unusable to drug traffickers and users and in so doing make our region drug free.” (Jorge Espat, Minister of National Security & Immigration, June 1999) * The National Anti-drug Strategy for Belize begins by outlining primary goals of the Anti-drug Strategy after which it examines the social and economic context in which the strategy will be implemented. It then presents an analysis of the illicit drug problem and its effects. This is followed in chapter three by the critical evaluation of current anti-drug policies and strategies employed. Chapters four and five were generated by the various working groups at the strategy elaboration workshop held from September 4-6, 1999. They identify draft policies and objectives, establish strategies and develop projects to be carried out during the five-year period of the strategy. The legal framework in chapter six reviews the various laws that regulate the supply and demand of drugs as well as the treaties and multilateral and bilateral conventions that Belize has signed. The institutional framework in chapter seven highlights the agencies that are involved the implementation of the strategy. The chapter on follow-up and evaluation explores the mechanisms to be used in monitoring the strategy while chapter nine suggests the strategies that Belize will employ to effectively manage the strategy’s implementation and to solicit funding. * Taken from a speech delivered by Jorge Espat , Minister of National Security and Immigration to the delegates of an International Drug Enforcement Conference held in Belize, June 1999

PRIMARY GOAL

The main goal of the National Anti-drug Strategy is to bring together the collective efforts of all sectors, agencies and organizations to reduce the demand and supply of illicit drugs in Belize by 50% over a five year period. The National Anti-drug Strategy will achieve the following:

1. The collaboration and cooperation of agencies involved in the demand, supply and reduction nationally, regionally and internationally in the implementation of the strategy.

2. The rationalization and control of the resources involved in the anti-drug campaign. 3. The undertaking of a national epidemiological survey to establish baseline data that will

be updated periodically and referred to continually to rationalize the targeting of resources during the five-year period of the strategy.

4. The establishment of a national drug treatment facility. 5. The improvement of facilities in the area of treatment and rehabilitation. 6. The reduction in the demand for illicit drugs in Belize by 50% over the next five years. 7. The reduction of the demand for legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. 8. The reduction of the prevalence of drug use among youth. 9. The reduction of drug trafficking rates. 10. The reduction of the availability of illicit drugs in Belize. 11. The reduction of domestic cultivation and production of illicit drugs. 12. The strengthening of NDACC to enable it to assume the effective and efficient

management of the identified projects.

1. SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SITUATION OF BELIZE

Belize borders Guatemala to the South and West, Mexico to the North and the Caribbean Sea to the East. It has a population of 239,000 (1998 est. pop.) and with an area of 8,866 square miles (or 23,000 sq. km.), it is the second smallest and least populated country in Central America. In 1991 52% of the population was located in rural areas with 48% being urban based. The population density of 10.03 per sq. km. is one of the lowest in the region. While being geographically Central American, Belize shares historical ties with the Anglophone Caribbean and is the only English-speaking country in Central America.

Belize is divided into six administrative districts: Corozal and Orange Walk situated immediately South of Mexico; Stann Creek and Toledo, the two southernmost districts neighboring Honduras and Guatemala respectively; Cayo is situated along the Western border with Guatemala and the Belize District in the coastal center. Although Belmopan is the administrative capital, Belize City with its port facilities is the largest urban commercial center.

Belize gained political independence from Britain on September 21, 1981 when it adopted a new Independence Constitution. The government of Belize is patterned off the British Westminster Whitehall system. Under this system the titular head of state is the Queen of England, represented by a Belizean Governor General who is appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister.

The Constitution of Belize calls for a bi-cameral Legislature known as the National Assembly which consists of an elected House of Representatives and a nominated Senate. A Prime Minister and Cabinet make up the executive branch. The local government is administered by district Town Boards and a City Council in the case of Belize City.

The population growth rate for 1998 averaged 3.4 % per annum (according to Central Statistics Office). Belize also has a large dependent population with 53% being under the age of 19 and 4.5% above 65. Average fertility rate is 4.6 children per woman, the fertility rate for women in the rural areas being 5.8 compared to 3.9 in urban areas. Women with no education have the highest fertility rate of 6.0 while 19 % of the young women 15-19 are mothers. If the population continues to grow at the present rates it is estimated that the population may double in 25 years.

Four ethnic groups namely, Mestizo, Creole, Maya and Garifuna dominate the current population of Belize. The largest group, the Mestizo, with 43.6%, is found primarily in the northern and western districts. The Creole with 29.8% follows this group. This represents a shift in ethnic balance between the 1980 and 1991 censuses due to steady rate of Mestizo immigration from neighboring countries. The Creoles are found predominantly in the Belize district. The Mayas make up 11% of the population and the Garifuna 7%.

The total labor force is estimated at 85,598 while a total of 92,100 persons are below the working age. At the end of 1998 Belize had an unemployment rate of 14.3%. A 1995 survey

showed that women make up 32% of the labor force with 25% of them earning less than US$4,320 per annum. Belize is a poor developing nation with a small open economy. The leading foreign exchange earner in Belize is tourism followed by sugar, citrus, bananas, marine products, and garments. It is anticipated that farmed shrimp production will increase by 67% in 1999. The United States of America is the largest trading partner importing 37% of Belize's total exports and supplying 49% of all Belizean imports in 1998. Belize's per capita GDP for 1998 was US$2647.

According to the National Literacy Survey of 1996 the literacy rate in Belize is 75.1% with 73.5% of women being literate. Of students currently enrolled in primary school 23% will not go on to secondary school.

The health condition in Belize is in a serious need of improvement. The infant mortality rate is estimated at 26 per 1000. This high infant mortality rate is particularly found among 36% of the population that is considered poor. It is therefore evident that there is urgent need for improvement in the area of child and maternal health care. The leading cause of mortality is lower respiratory infection followed by heart disease and cancer. Of significance to the National Anti-Drug Strategy is the fact that there is a growing increase in both drug related HIV positive cases as well as drug related mental health cases.

2. OVERVIEW OF THE ILLICIT DRUG PROBLEM Belize, primarily due to its geographical location, has become a part of the illicit drug transshipment route between the South American producers of cocaine and heroin and the consumers in North America and Europe. Added to this geographic reason are the economic and social conditions within the country. These have played a significant part in persuading normally law-abiding citizens to become involved in illicit drug smuggling and distribution. The influx of drugs into Belize has increased the number of users and addicts, thereby causing serious social and health problems. It has also led to an increase in criminal activities, in particular thefts, and robberies, including armed robberies, committed by crack cocaine addicts who need to maintain their expensive habit. Demand Reduction As early as 1985 PRIDE Belize conducted a series of surveys that examined the incidence of drug use in Belize. These included “A Survey of Drug Prevalence and Attitudes in Belize City” (1993) and a Belize Drug Usage Prevalence Survey (1995).

The Belize Drug Usage Prevalence Survey (1995) conducted jointly by PRIDE Belize and National Drug Abuse Control Council revealed that the student who was most at risk from the use of drugs was the urban male who came from a single parent home where the mother was the head of the household. The person least at risk was the rural female who came from families headed by both parents with the head of household being a skilled worker. Regular use of marijuana was found to be 2% for males and 0.2% for females. Approximately 0.4% males and 0.3% females frequently used crack/cocaine. In 1996 a Belize Prison Drug Prevalence Survey conducted by NDACC concluded that the prison inmates had higher usage of alcohol, tobacco, crack/cocaine and marijuana than the previous above-mentioned surveys. Other findings included the following: 61% of those that took part in the survey had used marijuana previous to being in prison while 43.7% had used crack previously. 32.5% had used marijuana in prison and 6.8% had also used crack/cocaine in prison. 44.3% stated that it is easy to obtain drugs in prison. The survey also found that 35.6% of the prison population were there because of illicit drug possession or drug trafficking. 41.2% had also committed a crime while using drugs and 39% committed a crime to buy drugs. With 57.9 % being in prison because of illicit drugs it is evident that there is a high correlation between drug abuse and crime. This is further substantiated by the fact that a high percentage of both repeat and new offenders continue to enter prison because of drug abuse. A Situational Analysis of Teacher’s Views on Drug Issues and Drug Prevention In Primary Schools conducted by NDACC in October of 1998 revealed that teachers consider the three leading problems they have to deal with as the following:

1. A lack of personal and social values that is displayed by today’s students. 2. Child abuse and Neglect. 3. Poverty.

53% of the teachers surveyed saw alcohol abuse as the biggest drug problem both among

students as well as in the community. Marijuana was viewed as the second major drug problem both in the schools and in the community. Teachers also felt that there was need for a clearly defined national drug policy for schools as well as revision of the current laws encompassing the buying, selling and consumption of alcohol. Driving under the influence of alcohol laws were also viewed as outdated, inappropriate for today’s society and needing to be upgraded.

As a part of NDACC’s participation in the Atlantic Coast Project, a Report on the 1998 Student’s Health Survey in Dangriga and Belize City was released in December of 1998. The survey revealed that consistent with the other previously mentioned studies, alcohol remains the most widely used substance in Dangriga and Belize City at 53.5%, followed by tobacco (11.0%), marijuana (7.6%), cocaine/crack (0.7%), stimulants (2.4%) and inhalants (1.4%). It further showed significant increases in prevalence of alcohol, tobacco and marijuana from students of Standard 6 to students of 6th Form in both districts. However there is an increase in prevalence of alcohol and tobacco in Belize City compared with an increase in prevalence of marijuana and cocaine/crack in Dangriga. Additionally, the percentage of students who started using marijuana at less than 10 years old was higher in Belize City at 8.8% to Dangriga ‘s 7.3%, however students who started using the drug between 14-15 years is 46.3% for Dangriga and 28.1% for Belize City. The study also indicated that the drug most preferred by students was alcohol, followed by marijuana and then tobacco. The results of the Student Health Survey proved that along with the rest of the coastal communities of Central America, Belize (particularly Dangriga) is facing tremendous risks of drug abuse due to the changes in geographical routes of drug trafficking in this region. It also demonstrates that if Belize does not take urgent preventive measures against illicit drugs and controls the ease of access to alcohol and tobacco, its students can become even more endangered. Supply Reduction The increase in the presence of weapons, a concomitant of illicit drug trafficking, has led to murders and other violent crimes caused by inter trafficking, group rivalry and the theft of drug shipments. In addition to the cocaine transshipment problem, marijuana production persists despite Belize’s efforts to eradicate it. It is also known that new cross border strategies are employed to transport shipments of marijuana by land into Mexico, possibly to supplement the larger shipments originating there, for transportation into the USA. Small amounts have been carried

by air travelers or sent by post to the USA. Intelligence efforts show that amounts are also smuggled from neighboring Guatemala into Belize for domestic use.

To counter these hazards resulting from the production and distribution of marijuana and the importation, trafficking and distribution of cocaine, the Belize Police Department has utilized all the intelligence and operational resources available. The police operations have had to be undertaken in conjunction with other normal police tasks. This has resulted in the severe overstretching of manpower and equipment resources, possibly to the detriment of efficiency in the performance of their regular duties. Maritime Summary

The coastline of Belize offers the greatest opportunity for transshipping drugs into the

country or Mexico. The extensive barrier reef serves as a rendezvous for go-fast vessels, coastal freighters, and fishing vessels. Almost every go-fast vessel departing from the northern coast of Colombia en route to Mexico transits Belize or its waters. Go-fast Vessel Operations

The entire Belizean coast including the barrier reef itself provides a haven for go-fast

vessel operations. Belizean fishermen are often contracted to pilot the go-fast vessels through the intricate reef system. Lighthouses along the cayes are used as navigation beacons, allowing the go-fasts vessels to operate at night aided by global positioning satellite navigation systems. With little fear of interdiction, given the many hiding locations, abundance of shallow water, and limited counter-drug assets, traffickers can operate in relative safety. Go-fasts vessels are refueled or unloaded by support teams, which usually use a different location for each operation.

Commercial Shipping

Little is known about Belizean traffickers using merchant ships and fishing vessels and the quantity of illicit drugs hidden in legitimate cargo. A common practice for drug traffickers is to conceal cocaine in fresh fruit and seafood. Vessels transporting fresh fruit and seafood are rarely checked thoroughly by Customs due to the perishable nature of the foods and the inability of the Customs Department to pay for loss if the goods are damaged.

In-land River Transport

It is highly likely that traffickers use Belize’s vast inland waterway system to move drug

shipments within the country. The Rio Hondo runs almost the entire length of the Belize/Mexican border and into Corozal Bay, making it the most likely to be used by traffickers. Additionally, there are numerous rivers that flow from various inland lakes and reservoirs into the inter-coastal waterway, creating a complex riverine system for domestic transport. These rivers are accessible only by shallow draft vessels such as barges and motor boats of the types used by smugglers.

Air Transport There is evidence indicating that Belize is used as an intermediate stopover. Some

traffickers utilize illicit airstrips and support flights by providing fuel and security. Traffickers have been known to use highways as landing strips. Local traffickers are often paid in cocaine as well as firearm and ammunition for their services. The cocaine is retained for domestic use and is sold to tourists. Airdrop operations occur throughout Belize on land and at sea. Overland Transport

Drug traffickers have been found moving cocaine overland using commercial tractor

trailer rigs, taxies, buses, and other commercial transports that routinely cross the borders outbound to Mexico. The primary inbound crossing site is the official crossing point from Guatemala in the Peten Area. There are also numerous back-country crossing sites that are used by all terrain or 4x4 type vehicles. Border authorities usually lightly man these remote sites. From the Guatemala border the drugs are transported using the local road network to distribute the drugs. In the mid-1980’s Belize was the fourth largest supplier of marijuana to the United States. Today Belize produces relatively small amounts of marijuana, due to a successful eradication program, combining U.S. Government aircraft and Belizean manual eradication operations. Production, Manufacturing and Trafficking

From both operational results and intelligence sources it is apparent that insofar as

marijuana is concerned, although the amount of plants being cultivated is possibly increasing countrywide, the continuing eradication campaign is having a major effect in keeping the processed marijuana available to users at a minimum.

With regards to the trans-shipment and distribution of cocaine, the apprehension of users

and street pushers with small amounts of cocaine continues on a daily basis, but the interdiction of multi kilogram shipments does not occur due to a number of factors. The factors include:

• The lack of manpower, finance and equipment. • A lack of timely, operational intelligence, prior to the arrival of a shipment. • The trafficking groups’ strong internal security. • The large expanse of both land and sea areas used to avoid detection from

patrols. Intelligence sources indicate that ‘wet drops’, (shipments dropped by aircraft or offshore boats into the sea or inland lagoons), occur on a regular basis. Additionally, boats from neighbouring countries, or Belizean owned boats that travel to these countries, bring shipments to offshore cayes and isolated locations on the Belize coast for storage or to be moved enroute to Mexico.

Sometimes some of these shipments, in particular the ‘wet drops’, are lost at sea only to be recovered by fishermen. These are then offered to the major retailers usually for sale on the streets to the users. Evident in Belize is the development of what is called the ant system: of small scale traffickers utilizing land routes, using private vehicles, either cars or trucks, and the air routes to the USA to export small amounts of cocaine at a time. Characteristics and Effects of the Drug Problem

In addition to those characteristics and effects of the drug problem mentioned above, there is a problem of society’s perception of those persons involved in drug trafficking. The general perception, in particular among the youth’s, is a lifestyle of adventure, immediate material gratification and adulation. This lifestyle is regarded as worthy of emulation. The traffickers are generally seen to move in the top strata of society with complete impunity. Although suspected for what they are, they are accepted on the strength of their assets and finances. Money Laundering

Although no major money laundering cases have been investigated and prosecuted, it is known that proceeds from the sale of illicit drugs by the major traffickers are returning to Belize. Early in 1999, US$109,000.00, suspected to be the direct proceeds from drugs transshipped to the USA, was seized by the Belize Police Department at the Philip Goldson International Airport. The money was concealed in a television set.

The passage of the Money Laundering Act No. 12 of 1994 and the Money Laundering Prevention Regulations No. 6 of 1998 are obvious indications of Belize’s commitment to combating money-laundering activities in the country. Internal and External Assistance and Cooperation Belize recognizes that no tactic pursued alone by any agency can successfully combat illicit drug demand and supply. Hence its adoption of a multi-agency approach. In addition to the Police Department, Belize has committed elements from the Belize Defence Force (BDF), the Customs Department, Fisheries, Income Tax and other relevant government and non-government agencies to assist in the continuing fight against illicit drug trafficking and distribution. They also seek the recovery of financial benefits and assets obtained from it. This multi-agency approach to opposing the activities of the traffickers has been successful. External assistance has come primarily from the United States government through the American Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the British government in the form of training, equipment and financial support. Between 1995 and 2000 $2,599,000 in financial assistance was obtained from the United States government. In that same period 2,185,750 was obtained from the United Kingdom to combat narcotics trafficking.

Belize has been a prime mover in increasing cooperation among Mexico and the Central American countries namely Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. This increased cooperation is especially evident in information sharing and in the implementation of joint training and operations designed to interdict transnational drug traffickers. Belize has also taken the lead in effecting a similar cooperation in the Caribbean region. Cooperation between the Police Department and the NDACC

A critical element in the elimination of drug abuse is avoidance of drug use and dependency through education. Cooperation between the Police and the NDACC can be considered ongoing. The Zone Beat Liaison Officer Unit of the Police Department and NDACC have been in the forefront of drug education programs in schools. In this program assistance is given to the Police by NDACC workers in counseling youths arrested for narcotics use. Additionally, assistance is given to NDACC in the form of statistics and joint education projects within schools. Expenditure on Police Operations

While Law enforcement anti-drug operations have proven to be extremely expensive there are no exact figures available to indicate the itemized expenditure of each major multi-agency operation mounted. Inclusive of subsistence and land, air and maritime transportation, an operation is estimated to cost in the area of US$40,000.00 to US$50,000.00. The US embassy estimates that a joint US/Belize anti-drug operation costs US$2 million. Since 1997 there have been three operations mounted annually. Prior to 1997 it varied between one and two per year. Smaller Police operations are also mounted on an as required basis, and depending on the scope, costs can vary from US$10,000.00 to US$20,000.00. Drug Seizures and Arrests

The following tables provide statistics on the number of drug seizures, and persons arrested for drug possession, use or trafficking aggregated by gender and age. The statistics indicate that illicit drugs in Belize consist primarily of marijuana and the transshipment of cocaine. The amount of cannabis plants seized in the first eight months of 1999 far outnumbered the amount seized in the previous years. Also the most cocaine was seized in 1997. Additionally, 85-90% of the prison population are affected by drugs. This highlights the need for rehabilitation work to be done in the prison.

DRUGS STATISTICS FOR PERIOD 1995 TO 1999

DRUG SEIZURES

YEAR

CANNABIS

(KILOS)

CANNABIS

PLANTS

COCAINE

KILOS

PERSONS

ARRESTED

1995

40

162,567

845.2

1,524

1996

201

128,281

469.8

2,033

1997

262.8

294,712

2,691.1

1,701

1998

1,557.3

202,803

40.3

1,588

1999

9.2

377,055

32.1

1,637

Table 1

PERSONS ARRESTED (BY GENDER)

YEAR

MALES ARRESTED

FEMALES ARRESTED

TOTAL PERSONS

ARRESTED

1995

903

621

1,524

1996

1,480

553

2,033

1997

1,188

513

1,701

1998

1,432

156

1,588

1999

1,461

176

1,637

Table 2

ARRESTS BY AGE GROUP FOR YEAR 1999

15 and under

16 –19

20-24

25-29

30-39

40 and over

MALE

46

253

358

205

345

254

F EMALE

3

32

40

24

42

35

TOTAL

49

285

398

229

387

289

Table 3

3. CRITICAL EVALUATION In analyzing the illicit drug problem in Belize a number of priority issues were identified by the September 1999 Strategy Elaboration Workshop. These issues were categorized under four main strategic areas namely: • Research & Diagnosis, • Treatment and Rehabilitation, • Law Enforcement • Prevention and Education. The following tables present a summary of the present status of policy implementation in terms of the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges of the lines of action employed. STRAGETIC AREA: RESEARCH AND DIAGNOSIS FORMAL EDUCATION: ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING PROGRAMS

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES FORMAL EDUCATION ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING PROGRAMS 1. Existing Drug education programs being implemented country-wide at the primary level. 2. Existing peer education groups target primary schools. INFORMAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS 1. NDACC information targeting distinct audiences. 2. Existence of alternative drug education programs.

1. Non existent at

secondary/tertiary levels. 2. Drug education programs

not always culturally appropriate.

3. Lack of funding. 1. Lack of information on

the effectiveness of current drug related material and programs.

2. No way of ensuring integrity of some of the Drug information presently being disseminated.

3. Failure to record drug

1. Feasibility of drug

education programs at the secondary and tertiary levels.

2. Develop a research evaluation system that is culturally appropriate.

3. Obtain funding for drug research in schools.

1. Research and evaluate

existing community programs in which drug education could be integrated.

2. Verify the integrity of drug information being disseminated.

HEALTH PROGRAMS 1. Existing basic data

collection within (MOH) Ministry of Health

2. HIV/AIDS Council presently looking at attitudes and practices among STI's/HIV/AIDS victims

TREATMENT PROGRAMS 1. Existing rehabilitation

programs.

use & abuse incidents Among incoming casualties & outgoing Patients.

4. Failure to track the abuse of legal over-the- Counter drugs including alcohol & tobacco.

5. Failure to accurately and Adequately monitor the Use of psychoactive and Psychotropic substances.

6. Failure to carry out data

collection in a timely and accurate manner.

1. No linkage with NDACC

at this time in looking at drug related incidents of STI'sHIV/AIDS victims.

1. Lack of knowledge as to

the effectiveness of Rehabilitation programs.

2. Lack of coordination among research, data collecting agencies.

3. Lack of linkage & contact among treatment centers.

1. A need to establish a

national protocol that intake forms at the hospitals, police stations, rehabs include a line item about drug use.

2. To provide data on the purchase of prescribed drugs.

1. Develop a relationship

between NDACC and HIV/AIDS Council to track the correlation between drug use & STI’s/HIV/AIDS victims.

2. To obtain statistics on the use of psychotropic substances in public health institutions.

3. Evaluate existing programs & standardize as far as possible the medical and legal aspects. Rehabilitation techniques

need to be clearly defined. 4. Facilitate networking of

various research groups & identify focal point for collection & sharing of information.

5. Fact finding to determine appropriate instrument needed to better collect & analyze data.

SUPPLY REDUCTION PROGRAMS

1. Bureau of Standards has a

list of chemicals etc. 2. Department of Health

Services presently regulates use of pharmaceuticals

1. Lack of technical personnel.

2. The non-monitoring of public distribution of pharmaceuticals.

6. Track recovering addicts progress.

7. Research produced /published must have validity/reliability

8. Accreditation as a means of determining minimum standards.

1. Assess the legitimate needs of pharmaceutical chemicals entering the country.

2. Need to put a system in place to track the distribution of pharmaceuticals /chemicals

STRATEGIC AREA: TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES MINIMUM TREATMENT STANDARDS

1. Two operating agencies with international standards/guidelines for operation.

PENAL INSTITUTIONS (Prison, Juvenile Detention, Mental Institution)

1. Currently treatment exists in the form of support groups in these institutions.

2. Assessment capability in prison.

3. Rehabilitation programs developed but need to be implemented

EMERGENCY TREATMENT

1. Hospitals have the infrastructure for the development of a detoxification unit.

1. No existing national standards.

2. No accountability. No monitoring mechanism in place for evaluation of standards.

1. “First offence” programs non-existent.

2. Lack of funding and trained personnel to implement programs.

3. Easy availability/ Accessibility of addictive

Substances (legal/illicit). 4. No national policy/

Standards requiring the Assessment and treatment of Institutionalized Individuals.

1. Hospital does not currently have the ability to conduct detoxification.

1. Establish national norms, standards, and regulations for operation.

2. Establish a monitoring mechanism to ensure enforcement of standards.

1. Enforce “first offence”

programs and recruitment and training of staff.

2. The Ministry of the Attorney General should coordinate directly with the police to conduct random "drug raids" at Prison, etc.

3. Develop protocol for collaboration between National Drug Abuse Council, and the courts to ensure the delivery of treatment.

1. Upgrade and utilize

existing facilities. 2. Promote awareness within

the medical community on the extent of alcohol and

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT FOR THE STRENGTHENING AND CREATION OF TREATMENT CENTERS 1. Psychiatric nurse

practitioners currently provide counseling and intervention for drug and alcohol abuse.

2. Two facilities “Therapeutic Communities" operational in country.

FUNDING 1. Facilities receive

Government of Belize subsidies.

2. Government of Belize provides assistance, use of facilities and equipment, tax exemptions, immigration/customs, and transport to existing facilities.

3. Some Public and Private

2. Insufficient awareness of the extent of the problem, within the medical community.

3. No training in diagnosis and treatment of drug overdose and alcohol detoxification.

4. No collaboration between Medical and Forensic laboratory (police).

5. No funding.

1. Limited access to rehab due to high cost and non-availability.

2. The facilities currently in operation are not offering "treatment".

3. Lack of national public residential facility.

1. No system of accountability

required by Government of Belize on subsidies private institutions receive.

2. Not enough financial support from families of local recipients of treatment

3.Provide training for hospital personnel in emergency treatment procedures and detoxification. 4.Establish Collaboration among treatment centers, medical facilities and other Government institutions. 5.Find funding.

1. Empower NDACC to

advise on the accreditation of existing facilities with a view to upgrade services to include "treatment”.

2. Ensure professional/assistance and training for existing a developing program.

3. Establish a national public residential facility for drug ETOH rehab.

1. Establish and enforce a system of accountability. 2. Find new/innovative methods of funding. 3. Introduce a "sin tax" to be levied on companies that produce alcohol, tobacco, and

Sector (community Support. ACCREDITATION OF REHAB CENTERS 1. Institutions in operation

have international guidelines for operation as “therapeutic communities''.

INFORMATION NETWORK 1. None. REINTEGRATION 1. None.

PROGRAM EDUCATION CERTIFICATION OF STAFF

1. Are not currently

accredited as a 'treatment" facility, locally or internationally.

2. No national system of accreditation exists.

1.No formal network exists. 1. No re-integration facilities

exist for individuals completing treatment.

1. No evaluation criteria exits. 2. Although inspection of

centers is a part of the mandate of NDACC, this is not enforced.

1. Insufficient training and

certification of Staff.

Pharmaceuticals to fund treatment programs. 1. Meet the international

standards required to operate as a therapeutic community.

2. Develop national accreditation standards.

3. Ensure compliance with national accreditation standards.

1. Develop a formal Collaboration network. 2. Develop a referral network. 3. Ensure the creation of a database and the evaluation of information. 4. Develop an Evaluation/ Reporting system. 1. Set up re-integration

facilities/ programs. • Transition facilities • Halfway house

1. Strengthen the capacity of

NDACC to carry out its mandate.

1. Ensure specialized training

certification for drug and alcohol counselors.

CRITICAL EVALUATION

STRATEGIC AREA: LAW ENFORCEMENT

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES AIRPORT CONTROL 1. Well functioning security

system 2. Good canine unit. COMMERCIAL SEA PORT Belize City COMMERCE BIGHT/BIG CREEK STANN CREEK DISTRICT OTHER MARINE PORTS OF ENTRY 1. Presence of Customs/Police/

Immigration/Quarantine

CUSTOMS 1. Functional Customs

Department. 2. Officers are present at all

1. Need for additional training

and staff. 2. Specialized training. 3. Additional specialized

equipment such as x-ray machine and scanners.

1. Additional equipment e.g. X-

ray machine/scanner needed. 2. Specialized training

necessary. 3. Additional staff with

specialized training required. 4. Lack of canine section. 5. Lack of harbor patrol crafts. 1. Lack of security system and

personnel and other weaknesses at Belize City Port.

1. Lack of proper security and

personnel (Police, Customs, Immigration, & Quarantine).

Lack of proper investigation

section. Lack of proper investigators.

1. To obtain specialized

equipment. 2. To identify training and

funding. 3. To identify specialized

training programs. 1. To obtain/provide

sustainable funding for training and equipment.

1. To establish a proper

security system and secure funding so as to provide training.

1. To establish a proper

security system, and secure funding for training.

1. To refocus the Customs

established ports of entry. IMMIGRATION 1. Functional Immigration

Department. 2. Officers are present at all

established ports of entry. FIREARMS & AMMUNITIONS 1. Existing legislation. 2. Firearms examination

Department. 3. Strong enforcement of

legislation. INTELLIGENCE/ INVESTIGATIVE SYSTEM 1. Multi-agency cooperation

and coordination (good basic infrastructure).

NATIONAL, REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

Lack of equipment. Lack of vessels and vehicles. Lack of canine section. Lack of communication systems. Lack of tactical equipment. 1. Lack of proper investigation

section. 2. Lack of proper investigators. 3. Lack of vehicles. 4. Lack of communications

systems. 5. Lack of equipment. 1. Lack of ballistic expertise. 2. Insufficient number of

firearm examiners. 3. Lack of firearm and explosive

Canine section. 4. Need for improved search and

seizure by Customs Dept. 5. Lack of bullet trap for data

and “drug fire” system for comparison.

1. Lack of technical and tactical

training in areas of personnel, continuous programs and standardized procedures.

Administration toward enforcement as opposed to solely revenue collection.

2. To obtain funding to properly equip the officers and training to take on the enforcement role.

1. To obtain funding for

proper equipment, personnel and training.

1. To obtain funding for training of personnel and equipment. 1. To provide sustained

funding for technical and tactical training and to obtain trainers.

2. To establish a Regional Joint Command Operational Center.

CORDINATION INTERDICTION FOR THE DETECTION AND ERADICATION OF CULTIVATION/ INTERDICTION OPERATION: AIR, LAND & SEA 1. Multi agency cooperation

and coordination. 2. Commitment by the security

forces. 3. Strong public support. 4. Regional & hemispheric

cooperation. 5. Good strong legislation. COMMUNICATION SYSTEM 1. Computer linkage JICC MONEY LAUNDERING 1. Existing law CHEMICAL DIVERSION

1. Inadequate field and tactical

equipment, e.g. radar, night vision equipment.

2. Inadequate air, land, maritime resources.

3. Inadequate human resources. 4. Inadequate intelligence,

investigative and operational funding.

1. Lack of standardized

equipment for field and operational communication.

1. Non-enforcement 2. Lack of specialized training 1. No legislation dealing with

To establish a Regional Joint

Operational Command Center.

To provide funding for joint forces operations.

To provide funding for communication and other specialized equipment through a central procurement.

To obtain capital assets for land, sea, air interdiction operations (vessels, aircraft, vehicle, night vision equipment, and radar).

To recruit quality personnel to meet manpower requirements.

Specialized training in intelligence analysis and tactical operations.

1. To standardize

communication system, through central procurement.

1. To have available the services of a financial expert to investigate money laundering cases.

1. Existence of the Quarantine Department and Department of Health Services as control.

2. Existence of Forensic Laboratory.

ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE 1. Functional Judicial System. 2. Good laws on the books.

chemical diversion. 2. Lack of a central chemical

control component authority. 1. Lack of training. 2. Lack of personnel. 3. Lack of specialized training

for magistrates and prosecutors.

1. To develop a central chemical control component authority.

2. To train personnel in the identification of precursor chemicals.

3. To enact legislation Dealing with chemical

Diversion. To provide specialized

training for magistrates and prosecutors.

To provide specialized training for Judges in money laundering and other relevant legislation.

CRITICAL EVALUATION

STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES PROMOTING RESISTANCE TO DRUG ABUSE 1. NDACC and other NGO’s promote resistance mainly through life-skill development programs. TRAINING 1. NDACC 1. Provides training at primary education level, teaching personnel trained in use of drug prevention materials. SHAPES

1. Existing pool of expertise to draw on for Training of Trainers programs. 2. Possible resources within various ministries. INTER-INSTITUTION COORDINATION SHAPES

1. Coordinating task force adopt an inter-institution approach for coordination planning implementation

1. Lack of coordination among NGO’s resulting in waste of resources. 2. Mixed media messages. 1. Teacher attrition/transfer rate high. 2.Limited ability of professionally untrained teachers to deliver student counseling most prevalent in several areas. 3. Absence of training at secondary level. 1. Insufficient commitment of relevant ministries to the program. 1. Coordination with NGO’s agencies difficult. 2.Frequent personnel representation changes in agencies in coordinating

1. To improve coordination, eliminate duplication and waste of resources. 2. To establish community standards and means of vetting objectionable media materials. To enforce existing media

regulations. 1. NDACC

1. Adopt training materials to level of professional training of teachers. 2. Recruit assistance.

1. Adopt an integrated approach to Training of Trainers. 1. Involve more committed persons. 2. Focal point in every ministry & agency.

and monitoring. 2. 6 ministries are involved. NDACC 1. Task force (representation & implementation at district level). 2. National Council (advisory planning monitoring). PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION OF DIDACTIC MATERIALS 1. NDACC materials available to schools. WORKPLACE PROGRAMS PROGRAMS IN PRISONS AND DETENTION CENTERS 1. Existing probation programs. 2.Follow-up for parole program exists. 3. Early recovery program exists.

body. 1. Lack of coordination with informal agencies. 2. Conflict in interest. 1. Limited supply (lack of variety, unattractive and unappealing for age levels). 2. Inequitable distribution of materials 1. No work place programs in

place 1. No sustained enforcement

of follow-up after release. 2. Early recovery program is

not currently being implemented.

3. No comprehensive system of monitoring probation.

1. Explore ways of retaining voluntary support/interest commitment. 2. Improve NDACC inter-institution coordination. 1. Design materials that are

appropriate and appealing. 1. Encourage management to

give time to education on training/treatment.

2. Encourage management to establish drug/alcohol policies that include employee assistance programs.

1. Recruit and train necessary support staff to implement and monitor programs.

PREVENTION AND EDUCATION LINE OF ACTION: INFORMAL EDUCATION

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES • COMPAR — offers a

comprehensive program for parents.

• Police Cadet Corps, Belize Defence Force Corp, Scouts and Guides all provide some training in drug abuse prevention.

• Drug awareness activities countrywide.

• No drug prevention in any

other youth programs. • No specific targeting. • Lack of involvement of

street children in youth programs.

• Evaluation of needs of

children, with a view to intervention.

• Increasing number of children of parents who are deceased especially due to AIDS, and children of drug addicts.

• Establish Outreach for street children.

LINE OF ACTION: FORMAL EDUCATION

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES • Drug education integrated in

the infant and middle division of primary schools curriculum.

• Improper allocation of resources (teachers, finance).

• Develop effective mode of administration of programs to deal with multiplicity and remote location of schools.

• •

NDACC directly involved in development of pedagogic documents. Family Services, MHD and some NGO’s offer parenting programs.

• Neglect of street Children. • Duplication and lack of

Coordination.

• Allocation of resources (e.g. trained teachers, financial assistance, incentives) to teachers more effectively.

• Target high-risk schools. • Revitalize PTA System. • Include more in-depth

counseling in principal training programs.

• Develop and disseminate directory of Referral system.

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES CHALLENGES

SPECIFIC PREVENTATIVE MEASURES GEARED

TOWARD HIGH RISK GROUPS COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN PREVENTION PROGRAM • NDACC task force conducts

prevention outreach Drug Free Youth Club, and Parents In Action programs in place.

HEALTH EXISTING FUNCTIONING ORGANIZATIONS: • HECOPAB involved in

Health promotion awareness, education, training, and provision of resource materials, referrals.

NDACC: has School Liaison Officers, Networking System and District Representatives in place.

• Insufficient targeting of

high risk groups (e.g. street children).

• Need to target youths /children beginning with pre schools.

• No mechanisms in place for identification and targeted intervention to high-risk groups.

• No appropriate form of communication with high-risk groups.

• Lack of funds to sustain

programs in community. • Non-committed

participation. • Need for more visual

publicity. • Resources too centralized. • Insufficient activities

outside of drug week. • Limited manpower. • Limited volunteers.

• Establish measures to

identify high-risk groups. • Locate resources to

develop programs for high-risk group.

• Maintain statistical database on high-risk children.

• Locate funds to conduct surveys.

• Recruit more resource

personnel and funds. • Encourage Community

participation in prevention programs aimed at high-risk groups.

• Encourage more involvement of youths at risk.

• Recruit more outreach field

workers. • Use of media publicity e.g.

caption, use of strict correspondents.

• Expand peer mediation programs.

• Maintain sustained

outreach programs • Identify Resources (human,

financial etc.).

SHAPES has a Health education Component. It utilizes an - Inter-ministerial

collaboration approach which increases the availability of trained persons, financial resources, materials.

BNTU through its annual training program makes provision of basic counseling skills for teachers. AWARENESS CAMPAIGN • Annual awareness campaigns

are conducted and periodic media advertisements are aired.

• Need for more visibility • Better coordination of

ministries involved. • Training is elective hence

there is insufficient support to teachers requiring counseling support.

• Limited coverage by

awareness campaign due to the unavailability of funds.

• Media advertisement not sufficient due to high cost.

• Introduce Counseling

programs with (early detection of children at risk compromised) - Establish a cadre of

trained Teachers as counselors

• Introduce Multi-tiered approach to outreach.

• Involve other teacher

organization in the provision of counseling support for teachers.

• Draft and enforce

appropriate legislation regarding public service ads.

• Conduct both pro-active and reactive campaigns.

4. POLICIES In seeking to address the previously described issues and concerns an overall goal was set and specific policies were elaborated to ensure the realization of that goal and to guide the actions of the National Anti-Drug Strategy for Belize. GOAL: Over the medium term, with eradication as the ultimate goal, the main goal of the National Anti-drug Strategy is to bring together the collective efforts of all sectors, agencies and organizations to reduce the demand and supply of illicit drugs in Belize by 50% over a five year period. In attaining this goal the National Anti-Drug strategy seeks to implement the following policies. RESEARCH & DIAGNOSIS • An accurate, reliable and timely drug related information system will be established to assist

in the reduction of demand and supply of narcotics. TREATMENT & REHABILITATION • All persons requiring drug & alcohol treatment services shall have equal access to such

services. • The capacity of the existing treatment and rehabilitation institutions shall be strengthened. • Mechanisms for monitoring the quality of treatment provisions shall be established. LAW ENFORCEMENT • Law enforcement agencies are committed to supply reduction. • Law enforcement shall work in partnership with the community and in close cooperation and

coordination with regional and international agencies. • Law enforcement agencies and pertinent legislation dealing with drug control will be

strengthened. • Specialized training will be provided for personnel in the administration of justice. • The Anti-Money Laundering Act will be enforced. • Sustained funding for support of the supply reduction effort will be provided. PREVENTION AND EDUCATION • Drug abuse awareness and prevention education will be incorporated in the curriculum at all

levels of the formal education system.

• Basic preventative health services to schools will be expanded. • Access to counseling services where children and youths can get assistance in coping with

difficulties will be expanded. • Counseling in parenting skills, community relations, drug addiction, gun violence will be

provided as part of the formal education process. • Drug abuse awareness and prevention education will be included as a component of all

informal education and training programs. • Drug abuse prevention and education programs will address the needs of various at-risk

groups.

• Opportunities to enhance the capacities of the various ministries and other agencies involved in the field of drug prevention education will be provided.

5. OBJECTIVES & STRATEGIES This section elaborates objectives and strategies in each policy area. These are necessary to guide the planning process and steer the implementation of the projects. The objectives are presented in order of importance based on the following criteria: • Feasibility • Political Support • Cultural Support • Financing • Impact

STRATEGIC AREA: RESEARCH AND DIAGNOSIS

OBJECTIVES STRATEGIES

To create a center for R&D To gather data related to demand reduction &

supply reduction To improve the existing database. To determine patterns of usage of

pharmaceuticals containing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances.

1. Establish information and research network to improve data collection.

2. Establish standards by which drug related programs are evaluated.

3. Train personnel in data collection and analysis.

4. Establish a protocol for the protection of the identity of information provided.

5. Maintain international standards of data collection.

6. Identify a clearinghouse for drug-related information and publications.

7. Enforce legislation dealing with the distribution of pharmaceuticals.

8. Develop a list of controlled over the-counter drugs to head by generic names.

9. Monitor the movement of psychoactive substances.

STRATEGIC AREA: TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION

OBJECTIVES

STRATEGIES

1.Establish an inter-sectoral and agency collaborating network. Increase access and equality of access to drug and alcohol treatment services. Develop services accordingly. Implementation of quality assurance program. Improve the provision and delivery of

rehabilitation services.

4. Increase awareness of the population toward

the implication, consequences and treatment of licit and illicit substance use.

• Establish a committee representing governmental, non-governmental (NGO) and private sector organizations mandated by law as an advisory body to government.

• Establish a lead agency to ensure coordination and collaboration among various institutions involved in treatment and rehabilitation as well as between local and external institutions.

• Assess needs in order to increase coverage. • Identify gaps, target groups by geographic

area. • Develop services accordingly. • Provide resources. • Implement quality assurance program. • Set minimum standards for all service

providers. • Develop a system to measure the

effectiveness of services. • Provide the necessary resources to enhance

institutional capacity. • Develop a support network of institutions. • Hold forums, conferences, training sessions

and seminars targeting specific groups. • Make use of information and

communication campaign literature, media, leaflets, and brochures and ensure user friendliness of the public awareness media.

• Devise outreach campaigns targeting high-risk population based on geographical area.

• Recommend legislative changes that make provision for social Integration Incentives for business support to treatment and rehabilitation programs etc.

• Establish a cadre of lobbyists among public officials.

OBJECTIVES & STRATEGIES

STRATEGIC AREA: LAW ENFORCEMENT

OBJECTIVES STRATEGIES

1. To strengthen the existing mechanism (JICC) for identifying, collecting, collating and disseminating intelligence on current and projected drug trends. 2. To coordinate the operations of the law enforcement agencies. 3. To disrupt current drug production and

trafficking trends on land, at sea and in the air. 4. To establish a regional headquarters for the

centralization and implementation of anti-narcotic and other drug related operations.

• Collect, collate and disseminate intelligence through Joint Intelligence Coordinating Center.

• Gathering of intelligence by Police and BDF units/cell.

• Gathering of intelligence by multi-agencies for example Customs, Port Authority, Immigration, etc.

• The sharing of information between regional and international law enforcement agencies

• Bi-monthly meetings of the BDF and Police

to discuss anti-drug operations. • Monthly meeting of law enforcement

agencies: - to share information - to analyze intelligence - assignment of tasks - implementation

• Continuous evaluation of anti-drugs operations.

• Patrol and monitor land and borders. • Continuous maritime patrol. • Track suspicious aircraft into Belize airspace • Destroy illicit landing strips. • Institute continuous bilateral and multi-

lateral operations leading to the eradication of marijuana crops and seizure of transit drugs.

• Interdict and prosecute offenders. • Establish a framework for the facilitation

and implementation of regional anti-narcotic operations.

• Implement regional anti-narcotic strategy for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

5. To enact and enforce legislation on chemical

control. 6. To implement and enforce the provisions of the

1996 Money Laundering (Prevention) ACT and its subsequent amendments and regulations.

7. To provide trained cadre of personnel involved

in administration of justice. To improve the forensic examination of firearms

and ammunition in order to enhance detection and prosecution of offenders.

Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. • To continue to provide leadership in anti-

narcotic operations in the Caribbean and Central America.

• To create a model anti-narcotic operational strategy.

• To strengthen existing bi-lateral and multilateral ship-rider agreements.

• Conduct a study or survey to determine the

level of chemical diversion. • To enact legislation to provide for penal,

civil and administrative sanctions against the diversion of controlled chemical substances, and to provide for a Chemical Control Competent Authority.

• Train personnel in detecting chemical diversion.

• Enforcement of legislation. • Training of personnel in the administration

and enforcement of the Act. • Conduct training needs assessment. • Identify training institutions nationally and

internationally. • Determine the source of and secure funding. • Implement and evaluate training on a

continuous basis. • Conduct follow-up training if needed. • Train ballistic expert(s). • Increase number of firearms examiners. • Develop canine section for search of

firearms and explosives. • Acquire bullet traps for data collection and

Identification of firearms etc. • Acquire a “drug fire” system for

examination and identification of firearms.

To work in close partnership with national and

international communities for improved awareness, cooperation and coordination in the fight against drugs.

• Secure funding for the above. • To develop a close working relationship

between NDACC and law enforcement agencies in the implementation of drug awareness programs e.g. Police Week, Police, Crime, Prevention Educational Program (PCPEP).

• Participation of personnel in national, regional and international conferences.

• Conduct public relations awareness campaigns through mass media.

STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION & EDUCATION

OBJECTIVES STRATEGIES

1. To offer specialized programs dealing with chemical addiction and other

behavioral problems for high risk groups. 2. To design at all levels of the educational

system curricula that ensure the incorporation of drug abuse awareness and prevention education.

3 To implement Students’ Assistance

Programs (SAP). 4. To create a partnership with parents and the

community to support substance abuse prevention programs.

• Expand and upgrade outreach to out of school children and include Peer mediation programs.

• Implement specialized training for teachers, people at home and community based professionals.

• Establish drug prevention hot lines and resource and referral directories in each district.

• Training

-Teachers, principals, stakeholders, curriculum developers, managers.

• Use of multi-media. • Monitoring and evaluation. • Conduct necessary research to identify

children at risk. • Implement SAP in target schools. • Conduct surveys to identify high-risk children and schools. • Provide training for managers, teachers, parents and children. • Monitor and evaluate programs. • Create and maintain database in targeted schools. • Increase access to student counseling

service in primary and secondary schools • Train parents and community at large. • Establish resource centers for substance abuse prevention in each district. • Develop and make available relevant

multi-cultural and multi-lingual substance abuse prevention materials.

• Disseminate current information on scientific research on various substances abused in Belize.

5. To legislate appropriate policies that address standard guidelines and practices for dealing with drug prevention and drug abuse. 6. To strengthen partnership with the media,

Public and private sectors to minimize the Use of licit and illicit substances.

7. To develop and implement specialized programs for staff and inmates of correctional/rehabilitation institutions.

• Increase counseling for parents. •• Lobby for bill for businesses involved in

the production and sale of licit drugs to provide a percent of their funds to promote resistance and rehabilitation.

• Lobby for abolition of shop liquor licenses.

• Lobby for drug-free policy and drug-free school zones.

•• Lobby for smoke-free public and work places.

• Create education and training programs in work places. • Conduct proactive and reactive awareness

campaigns. • Identify new sources of funding for

awareness campaigns. • Enforce Broadcasting Act that mandates

the free airing of social issues. • Train staff in correctional and

rehabilitation methods. • Appoint and train full time parole officers. • Implement support and aftercare system.

6. LEGAL CONTEXT

The standards that control the supply and demand of drugs in the country of Belize are found in several national laws, regulations and international conventions.

Legislation pertinent to the regulation of the supply and demand of drugs are listed below. The laws have been amended in some instances to better address today’s mode of illegal activities. Many of the acts stated below are recent and more sophisticated manifesting the need for upgrading of human resources in the judicial system. • Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act Cap 117 of July 27, 1878 provides for licenses that

cover the sale and consumption of alcohol. This act was amended in 1992 by Act No. 9 of 1992 and Act No. 2 of 1995 to create separate licensing boards for San Pedro, Benque Viejo del Carmen and the village of Caye Caulker.

• Firearms Act Cap 116 of December 1, 1913 of the Laws of Belize governs the licensing of

firearms, the possession of firearms and firearms offenses. This Act ensured that people do not hold illegal firearms. It was amended by Act No. 13 of 1990, Act No. 26 of 1992, Act No. 6 and No. 28 of 1994, Act No. 28 of 1998, and Act No. 44 of 1999.

• Misuse of Drugs Act No. 22 of November 12, 1990 makes provision regarding dangerous

or otherwise harmful drugs. It provides for the forfeiture of proceeds of drug trafficking assets. It further gives birth to the National Drug Abuse Control Council that works toward the prevention of misuse of drugs. It was amended by Act No. 26 of 1992, Act No. 6 of 1994, and Act No. 18 0f 1998.

• Criminal Justice Act No. 26 of December 14, 1992 amends the Misuse of Drugs Act to

provide for mandatory custodial sentences for drug trafficking offenses. It also expands the definition of firearms.

• The Criminal Justice Act No. 6 of May 30, 1994 amends the Misuse of Drugs Act and the

Firearms Act to increase penalties for firearm offenses. It also amends Criminal Justice Act No. 26 of 1992 where it deals with the Magistrate’s discretion to grant bail in all offenses except murder. It amends the Misuse of Drugs Act by strengthening the provisions regarding the forfeiture of proceeds relating to drug trafficking.

• Money Laundering (Prevention) Act of No. 12 of August 1, 1996 makes provisions for the

prevention of money laundering and provides for penalties for persons found engaging in money laundering.

• Money Laundering (Prevention) Regulations No. 6 of 1998 strengthens the Money

Laundering (Prevention) Act of 1996 and places additional administrative duties and requirements on the financial sector that go beyond the Money Laundering (Prevention) Act of 1996.

• Law Reform Miscellaneous Provisions Act No. 18 of 1998 amends the Misuse of Drugs Act by providing for a higher fine in the case of Summary convictions for drug trafficking. It also amends the Firearms Act to strengthen the law on firearms and to prohibit the possession of firearms with intent to cause unlawful violence. With these laws in place it is evident that Belize takes the fight against illicit drugs very

seriously. There is regulation of the supply of drugs and prohibition of certain categories of drugs that are classified as illegal. Certain non custodial sentences will also be imposed on people engaging in money laundering. The laws that exist also provide mandatory sentences for drug trafficking.

The multilateral conventions to which Belize is a party are the following:

• Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961. • Protocol Amending the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. • United Nations Conventions against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic

Substances of 1988. • Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and trafficking in

Firearms Ammunitions Explosives and Other Related Materials.

The following are the bilateral conventions to which Belize is a party:

• Agreement for the Control of Illicit Production and Traffic of Drugs with Annex of April 6, 1983.

• Agreement amending the Agreement of April 6, 1983 of August 11, 1983. • Agreement amending the Agreement of April 6, 1983 of September 15, 1983. • Agreement amending the Agreement of April 6, 1983 of March 30, 1984. • Mutual Cooperation for Reducing Demand, Preventing Illicit Production and

Trafficking of Drugs, February 9, 1989. • Agreement between the Government of Belize and the Government of the United

Mexican States to Combat Illicit Drug Trafficking and Drug Consumption, 9 &19, February, 1990.

• Agreement between the Governments of Belize and the Republic of Venezuela for the Prevention, Control, and Suppression of the Illicit Trafficking in and Use of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, January 15, 1991.

• Agreement between the Government of Belize and the Government of the United States of America concerning Maritime Counter-Drugs Operations (Shiprider Agreement), December 23, 1992.

• Agreement between the Government of United States of America and the Government of Belize for International Narcotics Control, 3 & 12, September, 1993.

• Cooperation Agreement between the Government of Belize and the Government of the Republic of Cuba to Combat International Drug Trafficking, July 24, 1996.

• Letter of agreement on Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Belize, September 22, 1999.

7. INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

The National Anti-Drug Strategy has been put together by the collaboration and input of all the various sectors, agencies and organizations in Belize that are involved in the prevention, rehabilitation and control of drug consumption in Belize. These include the following:

• NATIONAL DRUG ABUSE CONTROL COUNCIL • MINSTRY OF EDUCATION AND SPORTS • COUNCIL OF CHURCHES • MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • MINISTRY OF FINANCE • REMAR • LE PATRIARCHE BELIZE • ATTORNEY GENERAL’S MINISTRY • MINISTRY OF NATIONAL SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION • NON-GOVERNEMNT ORGANIZATION • MINISTRY OF TRADE, COMMERCE & INDUSTRY • MINISTRY OF PUBLIC UTILITIES, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION • MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & FISHERIES & COOPERATIVES • MINISTRY OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT & YOUTH • CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE • MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS • MINISTRY OF HEALTH • PRIVATE SECTOR

8.FOLLOW-UP AND EVALUATION In accordance with the proposed Multilateral Evaluation Mechanism (MEM) which is developed by the member countries of CICAD of the OAS, the National Anti-Drug Strategy of Belize adopts a comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, and follow-up mechanism. The following defines the context in which the monitoring and evaluation will be conducted and clearly outlines the processes involved. PHASES OF THE FOLLOW-UP & MONITORING PROCESS 1. The Multi-sectoral Working Group (MWG) takes the lead up to the editing and printing of the National Anti-Drug Strategy for Belize. This process is scheduled to be completed by December 31, 1999. 2. The lead agency that will coordinate the National Anti-Drug Strategy will be selected. It is envisaged that NDACC with increased human resources including a project coordinator, an assistant project coordinator, a finance officer and a secretary will execute the project. In addition one person for each office of NDACC will need to be employed to coordinate at the district level. The lead agency will serve as coordinating agency and will be responsible for the following:

• Access funding sources. • Assess and optimize the use of resources. • Formulate implementation schedule. • Monitor and review project progress and reports. • Arrange for technical assistance support.

3. Determination of criteria for planning and programming of projects. 4. Selection of Evaluation mechanism:

• Formative Evaluation • Summative Evaluation

5. Selection of the evaluation focus and the indicators.

6. Selection of a Multi-sectoral Working Commission to provide oversight of implementation. Selection of the Evaluation Body that will be responsible for conducting quarterly reviews,

annual evaluations and assessing year-to-year progress in meeting targets. MONITORING AND FOLLOW-UP This will necessitate a continual process of collection and analysis of information about the execution of a program. This will require a detailed implementation schedule and continuous verification of the stated indicators of achievement of specific activities. Periodic meetings of key players and stakeholders to determine whether projects are being implemented according to

plan as well as to take corrective measures if any needs to be taken. Execution Standard • Effective Administration of the following parameters of each phase of the project:

• Quality • Time • Cost • Capacity Building

• Verification of the effective use of resources and the efficient performance of executors of each phase of the project.

EVALUATION

The evaluation process will serve as an instrument to measure the gains for the purpose of reassigning resources and redirecting efforts. The periodic process of compilation and analysis of information on the efficacy, effectiveness and impact of some specific area of the project. The indicators that will be used to evaluate the projects are:

• Percentage of attainment of objectives • Most effective strategies utilized • Impact and receptiveness • Standards of execution: organization, efficacy and efficiency • Evaluation of the management of time • Evaluation of the cost, budgets and the management of finances • Availability of resources and support materials • Summary of additional required needs • Number of persons trained • Number of persons using the available resources • Evaluation of expenditures versus budgets and expenditure target

MULTILATERAL EVALUATION MECHANISM

INDICATORS ADOPTED BY THE NATIONAL ANTI-DRUG STRATEGY OF BELIZE

Embodied in the National Anti-Drug Strategy of Belize are specific indicators consistent with the Multilateral Evaluation Mechanism (MEM) to be employed by all signatories. Belize confirms to the indicators taken from the MEM outlined below. v Existence of a National Anti-Drug Strategy v Existence of a central coordinating authority v Existence of a budget for the central coordinating authority v Ratified international Conventions v Existence of a national law in accordance with international conventions v Existence of national system for the collection of statistics and documents v Existence of a national demand reduction strategy v Existence of prevention programs that target key populations v Existence of guidelines on minimum standards of care for drug treatment v Existence of drug treatment and rehabilitation programs v Existence of specialized training in drug abuse prevention/treatment v Existence of research on prevention and drug use v Average age of first use of any illicit drug v Existence of studies to evaluate treatment and rehabilitation programs v Area under cultivation and potential production capacity v No. of plants seized from indoor cultivation and potential production capacity v Hectares eradicated, abandoned or otherwise removed from illicit cultivation v New areas of illicit cultivation v Existence of body for control/prevention of diversion of pharmaceuticals/chems. v Existence of a system to estimate legitimate annual needs of pharmaceut/chems v Existence of mechanism to regulate professions related to pharmaceutical use v Existence of mechanism for information exchange among national authorities v Existence of centralized agency for information exchange between countries v Legislation to sanction the diversion of pharmaceuticals/controlled chem.subst. v No. of requests made for cooperation based on international agreements v Existence of agencies specifically responsible for eliminating drug trafficking v Existence of mechanism for information exchange among national authorities v Existence of centralized agency for information exchange between countries v Number of drug seizure operations and quantities of drugs seized v Number of persons arrested for drug trafficking v No. of persons charged for drug trafficking relative to no. of arrests

v No. of persons convicted for drug trafficking relative to no. charged v Number of requests made for international cooperation to investigate trafficking v Existence of regulation that criminalize the illicit manufacture of firearms v No. of person charged and convicted for illicit manufacturing of firearms v No. of seizure operations of firearms, ammunition etc. v Existence of legislation that criminalizes money laundering v Existence in legislation of provisions for freezing/seizure of assets v Existence of central agency for information exchange (national + international) v Existence of laws requiring the reporting of suspicious transactions v Existence of mechanism for management of assets from drug trafficking v Number of persons arrested for money laundering v Number of persons charged relative to persons arrested for money laundering v Number or persons convicted relative to persons charged for money laundering v Number of sanctions for failing to report suspicious transactions v Number of requests for cooperation to investigate/prosecute money laundering

9. MANAGEMENT AND FINANCING

MANAGEMENT

An NDACC Project Unit comprised of a Project Director, an Assistant Projector Director, a Financial Administrator and secretarial and administrative support services will manage the project. This centralization of a multi-sectoral at NDACC will ensure that the strategy in all its facets is treated as a single demand and supply reduction package. No one area will be emphasized more than the other.

The main functions of the NDACC Project Unit are: • Access funding sources. • Assess and optimize the use of resource inputs. • Act as a coordinating agency that leads the strategy implementation. Implementation Committee

The NDACC Project Unit will be assisted by an Implementation Committee consisting of a representative from each implementing agency that comprise the National Systems for Drug Demand and Supply Reduction (see Organization Chart). The Implementation Committee may convene meetings with representatives from one or more of systems at any given time for the purposes of: • Developing implementation schedules. • Reporting on project progress. • Requisitioning of project resources. • Providing guidance to NDACC Project Unit. Evaluation Committee

The Evaluation Committee will be responsible for conducting quarterly reviews, bi-annual and annual evaluations assessing year-to-year progress in meeting pre-determined targets. FINANCING

The total cost of implementing the National Strategy as is set out in preceeding sections of this document is estimated to be Bze$44 M or US$ 22M over a period of five years. The breakdown of the cost by project components is summarized in the Consolidated Budget.

The National Anti-Drug Strategy represents an extension of activities presently being undertaken by government agencies and non-governmental organizations. The Government of Belize is committed to at least maintaining its current level of funding. Current drug control activities funded by the government of Belize is estimated at about 30% of the cost of implementing the national strategy.

BASIS OF COST ESTIMATES The financing requirement of the National Anti-Drug Strategy is based on several

categories of expenditure. These include Civil Works for the construction and rehabilitation of Treatment Centers, the procurement of Equipment and vehicles, Technical Assistance and Training, the establishment of New Operations and projects and the expansion of existing ones.

Belize is committed to providing 30% of the cost implementing the strategy as well as ensuring that recurrent cost obligations attributable to the strategy are adequately met and sustained. Belize will seek external funding for the remaining 70% of the cost. PROCUREMENT

The procurement arrangement for the project will be based on competitive bidding procedures and open to the participation of foreign bidders on large value items. NDACC PROJECT UNIT'S FINANCE MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS The NDACC Project Unit will: • Liaison with Regional and International Funding Agencies, Counterparts, Implementing

Agencies and the Ministry of Finance. • Assess and optimize the use of resource inputs. • Maintain accurate financial operations and accounts. • Ensure that accounts are subjected to an independent audit annually.

The NDACC with the assistance of CICAD will convene a consultative group (table) of donors to examine the project proposals contained in this document. It is expected that the project would be co-financed by several external sources with each contributor identifying their area of preferred interest and emphasis.

50

10. PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: RESEARCH & DIAGNOSIS

PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

VERIFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

1. Creation of a drug

Information System.

2. Creation of an R&D Center.

Nationwide

Readily available drug related data regarding:

1. Number and institutions involved in supply reduction

2. Number of institutions involved in demand reduction

3. Consumption rates by: Ø Sex Ø Age Ø Type of drug Ø District

4. Efficacy of programs implemented by each strategic area.

(NDACC), Ministry of National Security & Immigration

$2 ½ Million

$ 5 Million

$ 7 ½

51

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX

STRATEGIC AREA: TREATMENT & REHABILITATION

BUDGET PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

VERFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS NATIONAL EXTERNAL ANNUAL TL

1 Establish emergency treatment services in all regional hospitals (4).

• Regional Hospitals

• 4 Regional Hospital provide emergency treatment service

• Quality of service • Range of service

• Ministry of Health (NDACC) Link: NDACC UCB

$1,500. $3,500. $5,000.00 $25,000. Over 5 years

2 Strengthening already existent treatment centers.

• South, West, Central

• Increased number of client and an adequate proprotion.

• Non Government Organizations

$240,000 $560.000. $800,000. PA

3 Establish a national treatment facility with outpatient unit.

• National • Increased number of local clients (not less than ½) total capacity.

• Drug & Alcohol Abusers accessing treatment.

• Ministry of National Security /NDACC NGO’s, Private Sector

$102,000. $238,000. Intl

$340,000. C/E recurrent per annum

$330,000. $770,000. $1.1 M

52

BUDGET PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

VERFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS NATIONAL EXTERNAL ANNUAL TL

4. Establish minimum standards for treatment and rehabilitation. 5. Establish facilities

to support re-integration into society.

6. Empower

NDACC to perform a Quality Assurance Function (monitor, train, accredit)

7. Strengthen and

promote public awareness of treatment and rehabilitation

• National • National • National • National

• Appropriate legislation of subsidiary regulations.

• Establishment of

Continuing care facilities (e.g. half-way houses)

• Increased number of recovering addicts (drugs & alcohol)

• Inspection

teams/system. • Cadre of trainers

of Trainers.

• More informed

population hence greater support.

• Visible campaigns.

• Ministry of National Security / NDACC Multi-Sectoral /Committee CICAD

• Ministry of National

Security / NDACC Multi-Sectoral Committee

• Ministry of National

Security / NDACC • Ministry of National

Security / NDACC

6,000.00 36,000.00 45,00.00 1,500.00 10,500.00 12,000.00

14,000.00 84,000.00 105,000.00 3,500.00 24,500.00 28,000.00

20,000.00 120,000.00 P/A 150,000.00 Annually Recurrent cost T/S 5,000.00 S/C 35,000.00 40,000.00 P/A

GRAND TOTAL ANNUALLY-$ 2,640,000.00 OVER 5 YEARS-$ 13,200,000.00

53

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: LAW ENFORCEMENT

PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

VERIFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL Z$

1. Multi agencies Law Enforcement Operational

Coordination 2. Counter

Narcotic Operations

3. Intelligence

gathering and analysis

• National • National and

International • National,

Regional and international

• Accuracy of the Intelligence

• Number of Joint Operations

• Tasking and Execution Program

• Seizure level • Eradication level • Number of arrests and

successful prosecutions • Level of

Compliance with International standard

• Operational success

Nationally, Regionally and Internationally

• Ministry of National Security

• Ministry of National

Security • Ministry of National

Security

$90,000. 3,019,605 146,040

$210,000. 7,045,745 340,760

$300,000. 10,065,350 486,800

54

4. Regional Operational Command center 5. Law

Enforcement Drug prevention campaign.

6. Creation of a

chemical control competent authority.

• National and Regional

• National and

International • National

• Reciprocating Intelligence and Information sharing

• Intelligence driven multinational operations

• Number Seminars

held • Number of

participants sensitized

• Amount of media coverage

• Number of participating school-primary.

• The interception of

chemical being diverted

• Number of seizure and interdiction of percentage of local consumption of chemical for illegal use.

• Ministry of National Security

• Ministry of

National Security and NDACC

• Ministry of

Health/Ministry of Agriculture.

300,000 185,775 21,757.50

700,000 433,475 50,767.50

1,000,000 619,250 72,525

55

7. Enforcement of the Money Laundering Act

8. Specialized

Training-Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice

9. Strengthening of

the Forensic Laboratory and Pathology clinic

•National • National • National /

Regional

• Number of cases reported

• Number of persons

trained and certified • Amount of narcotics

analyze • Quantity of drugs

destroyed • Number of firearms

and ammunition identified

• No of persons trained and certified

• No of drug related post mortems

• No of crime scenes examined

• Ministry of National Security /Ministry of

Finance • Ministry of National

Security • Ministry of National

Security

205,500 1,200,000

479,500 2,800,000

685,000 4,000,000

TOTAL BZ$5,168,671.5 NATIONAL BZ$12,060,247.5 EXTERNAL BZ$17,228,925

56

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC VERIFIABLE

INDICATORS RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Integrate drug abuse prevention and control content and methodology into the curriculum at secondary level

• Annual

prevention programs in formal Education System with teachers, psychologists, students, parents, principals, advisors.

• National • National

• 31 secondary schools, 11,000 school children benefiting from drug abuse prevention infusion classes.

• All secondary school teachers training in infusion of Drug Abuse prevention. Issues in all classroom interactions.

• A cadre of trained counselors per school.

• A quick response referral system network operational.

• MOE/QADS

• Link: BAPS, MNSI/NDACC, MOH/HECOPAB, MNSI/Police, University

181,200 $10,000.

422,800 $20,000.

604,000 $30,000.00

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 634,000.00

57

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION STRENGTHEN CAPACITY OF NDACC AS LEAD AGENCY PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC VERIFIABLE

INDICATORS RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Strengthen the capacity of NDACC as a lead agency in the prevention and control of drug abuse.

• National • NDACC is properly equipped, staffed and functioning effectively.

• At least 1 coordinator per district.

• Well-equipped district office and resources center.

• One vehicle per district.

• NDACC National level acting as the coordinator and secretariat for Prevention & Education – but utilizing a multi-sector planing & implementation approach.

$1.4 M

$2.66 M

$4.06 M

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 4.06M

58

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDIA, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC

COVERAGE VERIFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Strengthen partnership with media, public and private sector to promote drug abuse prevention programs and campaigns.

• National • Increase in prevention activities

• Enforcement of the revised Broadcasting Act.

• Networking of organizations

• Operating employee assistance programs

• Increase number of proactive campaigns (at least 1/4 per annum).

• NDACC • Ministry of

Broadcasting • Chamber of

Commerce • Better Business

Bureau • NGO'S • Private Sector • Banks • Forensic (Min. of

Nat. Security)

60,000.00

140,000.00

200,000

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 200,000

59

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION CREATING LEGAL FRAMEWORK PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC

COVERAGE VERIFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Create the appropriate enabling Legal Framework for drug abuse prevention.

• National • Passage of bill through legislative system (Act).

• MNSI/NDACC Advisory Council

• Link: NCFC, NGO'S

MHD, CHURCH

$100,008.

$210,252.

$310,260.

GRAND TOTAL BZ$ 310,260.

60

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION EDUCATION / AWARENESS

PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

VERIFIABLE INDICATORS

RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Integrate drug abuse prevention and control content and methodology into the curriculum of the upper division of primary.

• National • Primary schools (upper division)

• Approximately 280 schools.

• MOE/QADS • Link BUPPA (Belize

Urban Primary Principals Association) MNSI/NDACC

• MOH/HECOPAB MNSI/POLICE UNIVERSITY OF BELIZE

$321,900.

$751,100.

$1,073,000

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 1,073,000.

61

62

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS GEOGRAPIC VERIFIABLE

INDICATORS RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Implement a partnership with parents and community leaders of high-risk communities to combat drug abuse.

• Countrywide targeting high risk communities in the first instance

• Number of parents and other community members active in leadership role and drug prevention

• Number of activities held as a result of training

• Decrease in number of illicit drug activities.

• Ministry of Human Development (COMPAR)

• Linkages: NDACC, PTA, school boards, church groups, women's organization, BFLA, NOPCA ETC. LIONS

$81,600.

$190,400.

$272,000.

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 272,000.

63

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC VERIFIABLE

INDICATORS RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Outreach program for street children and out of school youths.

• National / urban areas

• # street children • # out of school youth

• Family services • Link NDACC/MNSI,

MOE, SHAPES • MOH, HECOPAB • Police/MNSI • Relevant NGO'S • CET • Other • Vocation/technical

unit

$780,000.

$1,820,000.

$2.6 M

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 2.6 M

64

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION MATRIX STRATEGIC AREA: PREVENTION AND EDUCATION IMPLEMENTATION OF SAP (STUDENTS' ASSISTANCE PROGRAM) PROJECTS GEOGRAPHIC VERIFIABLE

INDICATORS RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS

BUDGET National External TOTAL

• Conduct national drug prevalence surveys among school children and youths.

• Implement Student Assistance Program. (SAP)

• National SAP operational. • NDACC • CSO, MOE,

NADCC, MHD, Lions (steering committee comprising of ministries & organizations involved)

• Ministry of Education/SHAPES

$360,000.

$840,000.

$1.2 M

GRAND TOTAL BZ $ 1.2 M TOTAL PREVENTION & EDUCATION PROJETS $BZ 10,349,260

65

CONSOLIDATED PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS OF THE NATIONAL PLAN

SYSTEM PROJECT COST

RESEARCH & DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT & REHABILITATION LAW ENFORCEMENT

1. CREATION OF A DRUG INFO SYSTEM 2. CREATION OF A R & D CENTER 1. ESTABLISHMENT OF EMERGENCY TREATMENT SERVICES IN REGIONAL HOSPITALS 2. STRENGTHENING OF EXISTING TREATMENT CENTERS 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL TREATMENT FACILITY 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF MINIMUM STANDARDS FOR TREATMENT & REHAB 5. FACILITIES FOR REINTEGRATION EMPOWERMENT OF NDACC TO PERFORM

QUALITY ASSURANCE 7. PROMOTION OF AWARENESS OF T & R 1. MULTI-AGENCY COORDINATION 2. COUNTERNARCOTIC OPERATIONS 3. INTELLIGENCE GATHERING & ANALYSIS 4. REGIONAL OPERATION COMMAND CENTER 5. DRUG PREVENTION CAMPAIGN 6. CREATION OF CHEMICAL AUTHORITY ENFORCEMENT OF MONEY LAUNDERING

ACT TRAINING IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AND

$7,500,000 25,000

4,000,000

1,700,000

20,000 600,000 35,000

200,000

300,000 10,065,350 486,800 1,000,000 619,000 75,525

155,150

66

PREVENTION & EDUCATION

ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE 9. STRENGTHENING OF FORENSIC LAB 1. INTEGRATION OF DRUG EDUCATION SECONDARY CURRICULUM 2. PREVENTION PROGRAMS IN FORMAL ED. 3. STRENGTHENING OF NDACC 4. PROMOTION OF DRUG AWARENESS 5. CREATION OF LEGISLATION FOR DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION 6. INTEGRATION OF DRUG EDUCATION IN PRIMARY CURRICULUM 7. PARTNERSHIP TO COMBAT DRUG ABUSE 8. OUTREACH PROGRAM FOR STREET CHILDREN 9. CONDUCT NATIONAL DRUG PREVALENCE SURVEY

685,000 4,000,000

604,000 30,000

4,060,000 200,000

310,260

1,073,000 272,000 2,600,000 1,200.000 TOTAL: $41,816,085