As a small and developing country, Belize has limited medical facilities when compared to large countries such as the U.S. Still, major advances have been accomplished over the years – there are now two private hospitals and the national government runs public hospitals in all major towns.

Belize is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The structure of the government is based on the British parliamentary system, and the legal system is modeled on the common law of England.

Currently the Belize Government is controlled by the People’s United Party, which was elected to a second consecutive term. A two party political system has maintained over fifty years of stability.

Belize traditionally maintains a deep interest in the environment and sustainable development. A lack of government resources hampers these goals. On other fronts, the government is working to improve its law enforcement capabilities.