Belize Replaces Queen’s Image on Currency with National Heroes

Belize has officially removed the image of the late Queen Elizabeth II from its banknotes, marking a significant step towards decolonization. The announcement, made by the governor of Belize's central bank, Kareem Michael, introduced new dollar bills featuring national heroes, including George Cadle Price, the first prime minister of Belize and a key figure in the country’s independence movement. The redesigned banknotes will enter circulation in June and will also include enhanced security features. The 100-, 20-, and 5-dollar bills will honor Price, while the 50-, 10-, and 2-dollar notes will feature Philip Goldson, a founding member of major political parties and a celebrated advocate for national pride. Prime Minister Johnny Briceño remarked that the new designs represent Belize's resilience and the sacrifices of its national heroes. Despite some public concerns about the redesign's necessity and its potential impact on the Belize dollar’s value, others view this change as a crucial step in Belize’s journey toward republican status. Political scientist Dr. Dylan Vernon emphasized that while symbolic changes are important, they must be complemented by deeper constitutional and political reforms to fully achieve decolonization in Belize.

Belize has announced a significant shift in its currency design, removing the image of the late Queen Elizabeth II from its banknotes in a move aimed at decolonization. The country's new dollar bills, set to enter circulation in June, will honor national figures, including George Cadle Price, Belize's first prime minister and a key figure in the nation’s independence from British rule. During the unveiling, Kareem Michael, the governor of Belize's central bank, emphasized that the new notes not only enhance security features but also celebrate the country’s heritage. The redesigned 100-, 20-, and five-dollar bills will feature the likeness of Price. Meanwhile, other denominations will depict Philip Goldson, a prominent political figure known for his contributions to national pride. Prime Minister Johnny Briceño noted that these changes reflect the struggles and sacrifices of Belize's national heroes. He acknowledged public concerns regarding the redesign but reiterated that the transition is a step towards reflecting national identity rather than a commentary on the monarchy’s relevance. Reactions among the public have been mixed, with some questioning the necessity of the redesign and others worried about potential impacts on the currency's value. Nevertheless, advocates for greater independence see the removal of the queen's image as an important milestone toward a republic. Political scientist Dr. Dylan Vernon praised the decision as a long-overdue symbolic move in the ongoing journey of decolonization, emphasizing that such gestures should lead to broader constitutional reforms.