BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – Belize has assumed the chairmanship of the Small States Forum of the World Bank for the period January 2026 to December 2028.
A Belize government statement said that the role of chairman will be undertaken by Belize’s Prime Minister, John Briceño and that the Small States Forum is an annual event held during the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank meetings, providing a unique platform for dialogue on development issues specific to small states and for highlighting the specific challenges confronted by them, including vulnerability to economic and environmental shocks.
The statement said it also serves as an important space to advocate for a tailored approach by the World Bank Group to these small economies and that the members of the Small States Forum participate at the level of Governors to the World Bank, engaging directly with the institution’s highest authorities.
“Belize assumes leadership of this forum at an important moment, as the World Bank Group seeks to finalize a strategy for responding to the needs of small States in ways that take into consideration their particular challenges and vulnerabilities. The draft strategy recognizes persistent challenges such as volatile growth and limited job creation, particularly among youth and within the private sector,” the statement said.
It said that the handing over of the leadership took place during a meeting of the Small States Forum, convened to review the draft strategy with a view to finalizing it as soon as possible
It said that Prime Minister Briceño addressed the gathering via pre-recorded video, expressing Belize’s appreciation for this designation and reaffirming his commitment to ensuring that small states receive the tailored attention they need through fit-for-purpose programs and initiatives from the World Bank.
Belize took over the Chairmanship from the Republic of Cabo Verde.
and then 