Public Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management in Belize: Successes and Shortcomings

Abstract

In Belize, public archaeology and cultural heritage management are carried out via various community and educational outreach initiatives. Cultural heritage management in Belize falls under the purview of government institutions such as the Institute of Archaeology and the Institute for Social and Cultural Research, both under the National Institute of Culture and History. Archaeological projects in Belize also function as cultural heritage managers. Using both interviews and surveys with various sectors of Belizean society, this thesis presents findings on both the successes and shortcomings of carrying out cultural heritage management in Belize. I also offer, in the discussion, views and recommendations for enhancing such initiatives in Belize.