A new bill introduced in the House of Representatives on Friday seeks to protect, regulate, and standardize the use of Belize’s national symbols, ensuring they are properly represented and legally safeguarded.
The National Symbols Bill 2025 would give the state permanent copyright ownership over Belize’s national icons. These include the national flag, coat of arms, black orchid, tapir, mahogany tree, keel-billed toucan, national anthem, and national prayer.
Minister of Culture Francis Fonseca highlighted that Belizean law currently lacks restrictions on how national symbols can be used or altered. The bill aims to close this gap by establishing official guidelines for design proportions, colors, and lyrics to maintain authenticity and prevent misrepresentation.
“At present, the government has no authority to stop unauthorized use or modification of our national flag and coat of arms. This bill provides the legal framework needed to protect Belize’s national identity,” Fonseca explained.
While businesses will need a one-time license to use national symbols for commercial purposes, there will be no fees or restrictions on personal, artistic, or creative use, according to Fonseca.
The bill also includes enforcement measures, such as penalties for defacing the national flag or coat of arms. Offenders could face fines of up to $1,000 or a year in prison.
The National Symbols Bill is currently under review and is expected to go through all legislative stages before becoming law. The government encourages Belizeans to support this initiative as a way to preserve the nation’s cultural and historical heritage.
