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The Sustainable Development Goals in Seychelles
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in the United Nations Resident Coordinator's office for Seychelles:
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18 September 2023
Seychelles says YES to Transforming Education
The inaugural Youth Education Summit, which took place on 15 September in Victoria was organized by the Ministry of Education with support from the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office for Mauritius and Seychelles, WHO and ILO.*
Young people between the ages of 13-30 representing secondary schools across the country, post-secondary institutions, the University of Seychelles, youth organizations and leaders, young entrepreneurs, and professionals from various sectors and self-employed youth came together to discuss how to transform an education system that needs to adapt to the rapidly changing times. In her opening remarks the UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh highlighted that educational transformation needs to be inclusive and equitable with investment to prepare youth with the skills for today and jobs of the future.
The theme for this summit ‘Negotiating a new education landscape’ builds on the World Transforming Education Summit that took place in September 2022 in New York. The United Nations Secretary General Mr. António Guterres urged Ministries of Education to embark on a journey that will bring transformation in education. During the World Summit delegates resolved to place the youth in the driving seat when it comes to planning and implementing education reform initiatives. The Minister of Education, Dr. Justin Valentin in his opening remarks underlined his commitment to fostering engagement with young people:
“We celebrate the power of youth participation...the recommendations we make today will contribute to shaping the trajectory of the future of our nation.”
Building on the principles of inclusion, the summit provided a platform for young people to voice their perspectives on the most pressing issues affecting their learning journey. The four key topics explored by the youth during the group discussions were ‘New Models of Schooling’, ’Life Skills’, ‘Access to Opportunities’ and ‘Healthy Living’. Concrete recommendations were made by the participants.
The summit concluded on a high note with the Minister of Education declaring that the group of young people in the room would comprise the first Youth Education Council engaging regularly with his ministry.
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*World Health Organization (WHO) and International Labour Organization (ILO)
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11 August 2023
Sustainable Solutions for Solid Waste Management
Solid waste management poses a significant challenge to Seychelles. As a small island state surrounded by the ocean there is a scarcity of land, which is combined with a lack of engineered landfills. The island generates about 80,000 tons of waste per year though this number is expected to increase by 50 percent by 2030. Currently the waste is disposed in communal bins around the island and transferred to a landfill facility. However, the primary landfill on the main island of Mahe is expected to reach full capacity by 2025.
Facilitating the implementation of a circular economy is of critical importance to reduce the amount of waste flowing to the landfills. On World Environment Day the United Nations Secretary-General emphasized:
“We must work as one – governments, companies, and consumers alike – to break our addiction to plastics, champion zero waste, and build a truly circular economy.”
The circular economy approach is key to operationalizing the Government of Seychelles Solid Waste Management Plan 2020-2035 and United Nations priorities to reduce both land and marine pollution. UNEP, UNDP, UNFPA and UNECA* are working together under the Joint SDG Fund to support the development of circular economy roadmap and action plan, financing strategy and strengthen partnership between the public and private sector. Underpinned by the UN principle to leave no one behind, gender sensitive policies and strategies are integrated throughout the project’s circular economy initiatives.
On 13 July, the UNDP launched the SDG Investor Map, which addresses the need to mobilize private sector investment in critical waste management infrastructures. This market intelligence tool identifies concrete and emerging Investment Opportunity Areas to attract private capital to national development needs and policy priorities in five sectors with strong SDG positive impact. This will help to scale up the necessary investments in circular economy opportunities contributing to a reduction in the amount of solid waste being directed to the landfill.
Find out more at the UNDP Mauritius & Seychelles website.
*United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).
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28 August 2023
Vision 2030: Advancing Progress for LGBTI+ Inclusion and Rights in Africa
In Sub-Saharan Africa and around the world, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI+) people continue to experience exclusion, violence, discrimination and violations of human rights.
On 29-30 July 2023, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) “#WeBelongAfrica: Inclusive Governance Initiative” and the Hivos “Free to be me” project jointly organized the “Vision 2030: LGBTI+ Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa” consultation in Mauritius.
The consultation sought to review and analyse progress being made on LGBTI+ inclusion and human rights in the region, and to identify priorities and strategic approaches to achieve concrete change.
The consultation was a follow-up to a regional multi-stakeholder workshop organized by UNDP in 2019 that resulted in the development of a foundational strategic framework and set out the following vision for progress:
“By 2030, the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa will enable inclusive, just, affirming, safe, productive and fulfilling lives for all their people, irrespective of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. This vision will be driven by African values of dignity, fairness, acceptance of diversity and respect for privacy, underpinned by the ethic of Ubuntu – the universal bond of a shared humanity.”
The consultation was attended by over 60 diverse stakeholders, including from civil society, development partners, as well as allies from parliament, regional economic communities, and national and regional human rights institutions.
In her opening address, Lisa Singh, the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, stated: “Around the world and in far too many countries in Africa, LGBTI+ persons continue to face social, political and economic exclusion and human rights violations based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics.”
“We need to advocate continuously for the rights of the LGBTI+ community to be respected and ensure they are protected from any form violence, persecution, discrimination, harassment and stigma,” she emphasized.
The consultation provided an opportunity for exchange and analysis of common challenges that are being confronted in countries.
“This regional multi-stakeholder consultation offers a real opportunity to measure how far we have come in advancing LGBTI+ rights and inclusion, while also acknowledging the substantial work that remains ahead,” said George Biock, Programme Analyst, HIV and Health Group at UNDP Democratic Republic of Congo. “Transforming our goals into reality is within our grasp – to achieve it, we must actively collaborate, share our knowledge and put people in all their diversity at the centre of our efforts.”
While there have been a number of notable legal and social advances on LGBTI+ protections in recent decades, including the decriminalization of adult consensual same-sex behaviour in Gabon, Seychelles, Botswana, Angola, Lesotho and Mozambique, marginalization and human rights violations remain widespread, and in some countries draconian new anti-LGBTI+ laws and policies are being introduced.
“In the midst of the challenges we’re confronting that can feel overwhelming and dispiriting, it is important to celebrate and learn from the fact that the fight back from queer organizations and activists has been courageous and impressive,” remarked Anne Jellema, Hivos Chief Executive Director.
“In Nigeria, the enactment of the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act of 2019 has been a major setback to the protection of rights, not just of the LGBTI+ community but of the larger Nigerian population,” explained Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian National Human Rights Commission. “We have realized that the National Human Rights Commission cannot act alone. We need allies within the LGBTI+ communities; first responders who can act quickly in reporting violations; and partners that can mobilize psycho-social support for victims.”
“In May 2023, the Anti-Homosexuality Act was signed into law in Uganda,” said Richard Lusimbo, Director of the Ugandan KP Consortium. “Despite the immense challenges posed by this regressive law, an inspiring coalition of Ugandan LGBTI+ activists and their allies are not giving up the fight for human rights and equality. Instead, we are taking necessary steps to enhance resilience and continue advocacy efforts by challenging the unconstitutionality of the new law; providing critical emergency legal aid to those on the frontlines; and continuing to engage with our international partners to ensure the message is clear on what the community in Uganda calls for,” he said.
Participants at the consultation also learned from gains that have been made across different change pathways at community, country and regional levels. Discussions on gaps and opportunities looked at ways of strengthening strategies, programmes, partnerships and coordination.
Looking ahead, the consultation identified several key areas for action that stakeholders should place at the forefront of their priorities. These include focusing on efforts to shape social norms; build the LGBTI+ movement and alliances with other movements; promote inclusive laws, policies and governance; enhance public sector services; improve coordination among projects and initiatives; and harness the African human rights system and the UN system within the realms of the SDGs, rights and development, to address LGBTI+ issues. Participants reinforced the urgency to strengthen and expand multistakeholder collaboration and synergy across locations, institutions and initiatives.
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Story first published on UNDP Africa website.
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Our Work
19 June 2023
Digital Transformation for the SDGs and Youth Rights
The uncertainty and crises characterizing our global context today calls for risk-informed strategic planning and policy-making to identify emerging trends and seize opportunities to transform the future. As such the United Nations initiated a Noontime Knowledge series of consultations to give youth the space to have their voices heard about the issues that affect the future of their country and our planet.
Hosted in collaboration with academia each session brings together students, experts, researchers, advocates, and/or practitioners for 60-minute discussions on key strategic issues for Mauritius and Seychelles to:
Inform youth about the latest and emerging global and regional trends and their possible impact on the two countries both risks and opportunities.
Share experiences and stories from young “game-changers” acting at the local level to make transformations happen.
Listen to key solutions proposed by the youth, to feed in the dialogue at national, regional, and global levels, including the main global events (COP, SDG Summit, Food Systems Summits, etc.).
The first session of the Noontime Knowledge was organized in December 2022 with the students of the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Mauritius, and it explored the COP27 outcomes and their implications for small island states (SIDS) like Mauritius and Seychelles.
The second edition was co-organized with the Students’ Environmental Club of the Charles Telfair Campus. It focused on food security and youth action, linking national debates and actions from the global dialogue around the Food Systems Summit with the next Summit to be held in July.
The most recent in the Noontime Knowledge series brought together youth advocates from UN Youth Seychelles, young entrepreneurs, students and teachers from the ITC course at the University of Seychelles, and United Nations experts to discuss how to harness digital transformation to boost progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and foster youth empowerment in the lead up to the SDG Summit being held in September.
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08 August 2023
First Regional Review Meeting for Small Islands Conference Unveils Ambitious Vision
Gathered in Port Louis, Mauritius, the small island nations of the Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South China Sea (AIS) along with international partners came together to review sustainable development progress and propose new partnerships and solutions. The consultations closed with an ambitious vision document outlining how the region aims to tackle the numerous crises it is facing.
A strengthened multilateralism is key to addressing the unique challenges faced by SIDS, while leaving no one behind. United in their pursuit of sustainable development, the island nations seek to empower and uplift their countries and peoples through cooperative and collective efforts.
Acknowledging the challenges they faced in implementing the previous programme of action for the SIDS, known as the SAMOA Pathway (2014), special attention was paid to better coordination in the region, attempting to overcome challenges posed by the vast geographical, political and economic diversity of the eight nations.
Despite making significant progress, SIDS in the AIS region are still grappling with the adverse impacts of climate change, COVID-19, water scarcity, energy access, transportation connectivity, aging populations, and brain drain. Addressing these issues requires enhanced international cooperation and support.
The vision for the next decade articulated at the meeting prioritizes economic resilience and fosters long-term partnerships to achieve sustainable prosperity. It acknowledges SIDS’ dependence on external trade and Official Development Assistance and stresses the need for preferential access to markets and finance, as well as debt relief. And they called on the international community to help their transition to sustainable economic models, digital transformation, and research and development for environmentally sound technologies.
Acknowledging the significance of the ocean to their culture, identity, and prosperity, the document commits to its protection and sustainable use. Through it, island nations commit to efforts to tackle plastic pollution, preserve biodiversity, and pursue ambitious climate action and disaster risk reduction. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, they also urge international partners to help them achieve shared goals, including limiting temperature increase to 1.5 °C.
The wide-ranging vision also saw a commitment to supporting sustainable social protection systems, reducing poverty, and addressing inequalities to strengthen the resilience of SIDS populations in the region. It aims to achieve food and energy security through enhanced local production and aims to build inclusive digital societies through the promotion of digital literacy for all.
Written by UN DESA article first appeared on the UNDESA website.
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11 August 2023
Youth for Climate Change: The Seychelles Youth engage in greener job opportunities
The pledge to Leave No One Behind underpins the United Nations work and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This includes our youth who not only directly experience the outcome of the SDGs but will also be the key driver for their successful implementation in the future. The GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been prioritizing youth as one of the “leave no one behind” vulnerable groups in the context of its environment and development work.
The SGP has been running a youth and climate change portfolio with four main projects in addition to two prior youth projects addressing climate change concerns. The Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles completed a mangrove restoration and management project while the Futuro Sports Sesel led aspiring footballers to understand the challenges of climate change and how as a sports academia they too can take actions to combat its impact.
Young people occupy a unique position in relation to the climate crisis and their generations will be forced to address the threats and challenges to make radical transformations possible. This Youth and Climate Change project portfolio is supporting innovative youth-led experimental initiatives. Importantly it aims to showcase the results and share lessons to demonstrate practical and specific ways for youth engagement in advancing energy system transformation and concrete measures to address climate change in the country.
More than 200 youths in Seychelles have been developing their awareness, skills and competencies to lead climate action at local, national and global levels. Some examples include: (1) aspiring farmers from the Seychelles Institute of Agriculture collaborating with the Grand Anse Farmers Association to increase farm resilience against water deficit, during the dry season and build their knowledge and capacity about water conservation techniques and other field applications. (2) Younger students in two primary schools supported with a start up nursery and solar irrigation systems to instil in them the love for agricultural practices. (3) The University of Seychelles’ youth-led project using innovative tasks in climate change mitigation and adaptation within the context of sustainable development and environmental protection through livelihood improvement and the creation of green jobs. These include acceptance of photovoltaic systems in the Seychelles, environmental sustainability in the Seychelles’ hospitality sector, and the promotion of agroforestry among 40 farmers through the planting of 600 fruit trees. The Unisey youth project team concluded with a hands-on training of five young people and installation of a 15kw PV system at the campus in collaboration with the Seychelles Energy Department.
Marissa Samedi, 21 years old, informs that she participated in the project by undertaking her research work on PV intake in the community. Part of the findings showed that PV is still inaccessible and unaffordable for most households to adopt the systems in the country:
"The project graced me with many opportunities and a clear guidance to a green career path. Now that I have completed my studies, I am working with a tourism company as the sustainability officer, assisting them in making greener choices for the company.”
The Global Shapers Victoria Hub has been building environmental leadership in young people aged 11 – 20, through an interactive engagement programme run during the school holidays. The aim was to equip the next generation of environmentally conscious young leaders with the skills, knowledge, confidence, and networks to positively tackle local climate action-related causes in their communities. Despite challenges with the COVID19 pandemic, they have managed to train 40 youths in specific leadership skills to ensure that a new generation of competent, ethical, and environmentally conscious servant-leaders across the public, private and civil society sectors are being fostered. The participants met with national leaders operating in the conservation space in Seychelles, learnt first-hand about the climate-related challenges that our country faces, as well as community-led solutions that are taking place on the ground. They were also connected to existing conservation groups and NGOs in Seychelles through experiential activities and developed their own initiatives implemented at community level. This programme is a first for Seychelles aiming to attract more young people towards volunteering opportunities. Young Yoan Aglae exclaims:
“A small country like the Seychelles, why are we contributing to so much trash, why can’t we instead reduce, re-use and recycle!”
Finally, The Guy Morel Institute brought together knowledge of all the projects from this Youth and Climate Change portfolio for wider dissemination at national level, while also promoting a greener platform at the tertiary academic institution. A Youth and Climate Change conference (with a Children’s Conference Component) was organised over four days in October 2022 with participation of over 150 youth. There were presentations from stakeholders engaged in a variety of climate change initiatives, such as an explanation by Ambassador Ronny Jumeau of the UNFCCC COP processes. The objectives of the conference were to promote youth engagement in Seychelles’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and empower them to become climate change advocates, while inspiring their leadership in climate action within their community or work environment. In the end a youth-climate position statement was produced on the implementation of the Seychelles NDC and engagement towards building climate adaptation and resilience in the country.
The UN recognizes that youth can be a positive force for development and remains committed to supporting them to access the knowledge and opportunities they need to thrive.
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09 August 2023
UNWTO Members Meet to Rethink Agenda for African Tourism
UNWTO welcomed delegations from 33 countries, including 22 Ministers of Tourism, two Deputy Ministers and four Ambassadors to the meeting. As the most important annual event for the region's Member States the meeting brought together international organizations and the private sector to focus on opportunities around tourism jobs and investments while also recognizing the vital need to address challenges including the climate crisis.
Reflecting the high level of political support for the event, and for UNWTO's mission to guide tourism development across Africa, the meeting welcomed the attendance of the Prime Minister Republic of Mauritius Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, as well as Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Land Use Planning, Minister of Tourism, Republic of Mauritius, and Vice-Chair of the UNWTO Executive Council Steven Obeegadoo.
Also in attendance were the African Union Commissioner for Trade and Development, Albert Muchanga, the Secretary-General of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, the Secretary-General of the Commonweath, Patricia Scotland KC, Special Advisor to the UNWTO Secretary-General Lai Mohammed, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles Lisa S. Singh, the Resident Representative of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Amanda Serumaga, Representative for the World Health Organization (WHO) Dr. Anne Ancia, and representatives from the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and from IFEMA and the Tui Care Foundation.
Members were provided with an overview of UNWTO's achievements over the past year, with a particular focus on core priorities for tourism in Africa:
Tourism Investments: UNWTO presented a new set of Investment Guidelines for Mauritius, designed to connected investors with tourism projects in the country.
Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment: With tourism recognized for its unique ability to drive gender equality and empower African youth, Members were advised on the progress of the UNWTO Women in Tourism Leadership for Africa Committee, and the Organization's focus on education and training.
Advocating for 'Brand Africa': Members were provided with an update on UNWTO's work to empower African tourism professionals to take charge of the narrative, including through two editions of the Brand Africa Think Tank Dialogue and plans for a UNWTO Media Training Workshop.
In close collaboration with its Member States from across the region, UNWTO has also updated its Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth. The revised roadmap reflects the new challenges of post-pandemic tourism and the priorities outlined by Members.
Tourism addresses climate action
UNWTO continues to lead tourism's shift to greater sustainability, recognizing the impact of extreme weather events, including the potential for heat waves to cut off the lifeline the sector offers for destinations worldwide. In Mauritius, Members were given an update of UNWTO's work around sustainability, most notably its leadership of the One Planet Tourism Network and the progress of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. During her intervention on the Ministerial Panel Session: Addressing Global Challenges UN Resident Coordinator Ms. Singh emphasized opportunities in investing in climate resilience, and in vertical and horizontal diversification of tourism industries, coupling coastal leisure with inland cultural and environmental experiences. She underlined the need to better integrate the social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development in the way the tourism industry is shaped.
Tourism for rural development
Against the backdrop of the Regional Commission meeting, Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili enjoyed an official visit to Le Morne, recognized by UNWTO as one of its Best Tourism Villages. The Mauritian village of Old Grand Port was also awarded the accolade.
Original article written by UNWTO. This version has been edited from the article first published on UNWTO website.
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10 May 2023
Joint SDG Fund Project: South-South Collaboration for Food Systems
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has taken the lead in promoting a new partnership between two influential institutions - the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institution (FAREI) from Mauritius, and the Seychelles Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture (SIAH) - to advance sustainable agricultural practices in their respective countries. This initiative is consistent with the Joint SDG Fund Project, which was launched in 2022 to encourage south-south cooperation between Mauritius and Seychelles in the area of climate-smart agriculture.
Given their shared status as Small Island Developing States, Mauritius and Seychelles are faced with similar challenges, particularly in terms of food security. Currently, Mauritius imports a significant proportion of its food supplies (77%), while Seychelles produces only a small fraction of the agricultural produce that it consumes (2.2%). Both countries are grappling with issues related to land scarcity and climate change and must shift to more sustainable agricultural practices to enhance their food security. The Joint SDG Fund Project has provided support to Mauritius to produce bio-fertilizers from seaweed, and sustained Seychelles’ efforts to adopt climate-smart agricultural techniques such as aquaponics, hydroponics, and sheltered farming to reduce its population's reliance on imported food.
Sharing knowledge for climate-smart agricultural production
Following consultations on seaweed fertilisers in Seychelles last week, stakeholders from UNDP, FAREI and SIAH convened to another peer-to-peer meeting in Mauritius on April 3, 2023. The meeting explored the potential benefits of enhancing collaboration between the two island nations in the area of agriculture and discussed the possibility of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FAREI and SIAH. The MOU, once drafted and validated, will potentially facilitate knowledge sharing between the two institutions and contribute to the development of more resilient food systems in both countries.
This series of exchanges held in Mauritius over two days, included visits to FAREI's infrastructure, discussions with representatives from the Department of Agriculture of the University of Mauritius, and interactions with smart agriculture farmers, including beneficiaries of the UNDP-GEF Small Grants Programme. This initiative represents a promising stride towards achieving greater food security in both countries and underscores the power of collaboration and cooperation in advancing sustainable development.
Article originally appeared on the UNDP Mauritius & Seychelles website 4 April 2023.
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02 May 2023
World Press Freedom Day 2023
The World Press Freedom Index is an evaluation of the environment for journalism in 180 countries and territories compiled by the international NGO Reporters without Borders (RSF). Seychelles placed 34th this year. The Index recognised "The environment tends to favour the practice of journalism" and that the country is rare in Africa with the majority of journalists being women.
The report also shined the light on the global challenge of disinformation campaigns bolstered by artificial intelligence technology weakening journalism and undermining the right to information.
On this World Press Freedom Day, the UN in Seychelles shares the message from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
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For three decades, on World Press Freedom Day, the international community has celebrated the work of journalists and media workers.
This day highlights a basic truth: all our freedom depends on press freedom.
Freedom of the press is the foundation of democracy and justice. It gives all of us the facts we need to shape opinions and speak truth to power. And as this year’s theme reminds us, press freedom represents the very lifeblood of human rights.
But in every corner of the world, freedom of the press is under attack.
Truth is threatened by disinformation and hate speech seeking to blur the lines between fact and fiction, between science and conspiracy.
The increased concentration of the media industry into the hands of a few, the financial collapse of scores of independent news organizations, and an increase of national laws and regulations that stifle journalists are further expanding censorship and threatening freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, journalists and media workers are directly targeted on and offline as they carry out their vital work. They are routinely harassed, intimidated, detained and imprisoned.
At least 67 media workers were killed in 2022 — an unbelievable 50 per cent increase over the previous year. Nearly three quarters of women journalists have experienced violence online, and one in four have been threatened physically.
Ten years ago, the United Nations established a Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists to protect media workers and end impunity for crimes committed against them.
On this and every World Press Freedom Day, the world must speak with one voice.
Stop the threats and attacks.
Stop detaining and imprisoning journalists for doing their jobs.
Stop the lies and disinformation.
Stop targeting truth and truth-tellers.
As journalists stand up for truth, the world stands with them.
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For more information: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/press-freedom
and 2023 World Press Freedom Index – journalism threatened by fake content industry | RSF
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06 April 2023
UN-Government Retreat to accelerate a transformative development agenda
Over the past 6 months, the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) for Seychelles and the Government of the Republic of Seychelles have been collaborating to design a new strategic partnership document. The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF 2024-2028) will be co-owned and co-signed by the UN and government and aligned to the National Development Plans and priorities. This strategic document will provide the overall strategy and plan to contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
One of the principal events associated with UNSDCF formulation is a two-day Strategic Prioritization Retreat (SPR). The SPR co-hosted by the UNCT and the Government of Seychelles was held on 7-8 March 2023 at the Savoy Hotel, Beau Vallon, Seychelles. The purpose of the SPR was to agree and further refine with the government and other key stakeholders the priority areas shaping the future cooperation framework. An important milestone event the SPR engagement was built on themes and focus areas for UN collaboration arising from the independent evaluation of the existing Strategic Partnership Framework (SPR) (2018-2023), UN Common Country Analysis (CCA), and consultations with government, civil society, academia, and private sector.
The SPR brought a cross-section of around 50 development partners, including ministers, other government officials, and the United Nations Development System to think strategically about risks and how to address risks and vulnerabilities within the unique context of the country. With less than ten years left to achieve the SDGs, the UNCT for Seychelles aims to design a Cooperation Framework in partnership with the government that is strategic, succinct, adaptable, and results-oriented and which integrates Leave No One Behind (LNOB) as the core unifying principle.
In her opening remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh commended the government for the significant progress that Seychelles has made in its development trajectory. She reminded participants that with only 7 years to go before the 2030 Agenda all partners need to come together to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. As such the Resident Coordinator stressed the importance of focussed, systemic efforts on the part of the UN. She also spoke of multiple overlapping challenges and risks posing challenges for international development and economic systems, and the need to advance resilient solutions.
In his keynote address, the Minister for Finance, Planning and Trade Mr. Naadir Hassan outlined the current status of the National Plan which had been framed based on a ‘rethink and reform agenda for results’ emerging out of the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The Minister called on the UN joint programmes to adopt horizontal cross-sectoral solutions alongside SDG financing to respond to resourcing gaps. The Minister also requested the UN to leverage its access to expertise and partnerships, including the private sector for integrated development solutions.
To kickstart the exploration of challenges and opportunities a high-level panel discussion was moderated by Ms. Amanda Serumaga, UNDP Resident Representative, on behalf of the UNCT. Panellists comprised:
Hon. Mr Naadir Hassan, Minister for Finance, National Planning & Trade
Ms Aissatou Diallo, Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Ms Joelle Perreau, Vice Chancellor, University of Seychelles
Mr Ashraf El Nour, Regional Director, the International Organization for Migration (IOM)
Mr Charles Boliko, Regional Director, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)
Dialogue centred on food systems and food sovereignty, anticipating the future human capital (educational and skills) needs of a transformed economy, and the full integration of climate adaptation and the significant associated costs across all sectors. The importance of readily accessible investment climate and SDG finance and digitization featured prominently, alongside the imperative role of the private sector, as well as capacity building for ensuring the means of implementation.
During the afternoon of day one, and the morning of day two, a series of group foresight exercises were held to encourage the UN and government participants to think strategically to jointly identify the key challenges and priorities to address in support of the SDGs and national development priorities. Based on the participants’ inputs from the SPR outcomes and inter-agency outputs will be reviewed to ensure a high-quality, risk-informed strategic document for Seychelles. The draft cooperation framework will be shared for validation in April.
In closing the SPR, the UN Resident Coordinator expressed gratitude to the government and UN colleagues for thinking and collaborating strategically. She commented on the requirement for robust partnerships to address the emergent priority areas. Ms. Singh emphasised the consensus on foresight and the portfolio approach, and the important discussions which had taken place around sustainable capacity building throughout all pillars. The Resident Coordinator also highlighted there are good opportunities for regional and South-South cooperation.
Minister Hassan in his closing remarks echoed Seychelle’s complex, unique challenges, and to move beyond labels e.g. high-income countries. He highlighted that the country’s reliance on imports leaves it highly vulnerable, weakened by the pandemic and war in Ukraine. As such he recognized that this necessitates innovation and new ways of thinking, including around digitalisation and financing. The Minister repeated his request for strong partnerships and greater synergies and coordination between UN agencies and thanked the participants for their presence and contributions.
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Press Release
24 July 2023
Consultations open in Mauritius ahead of the first major international conference on Small Island Developing States since the pandemic
Port Louis, Mauritius – 24 July: Consultations for the first major international conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) since the global pandemic opens in Port Louis, Mauritius on July 24.
At the meeting, the small island nations of the Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South China Sea (AIS) will meet with international partners to review sustainable development progress and propose new partnerships and solutions in advance of the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States in Antigua and Barbuda in 2024.
SIDS are in the crossfires of multiple crises: climate change, inequality and the economic and social repercussions of COVID-19, especially related to debt. COVID-19 hugely impacted all SIDS, especially the collapse in tourism that left large holes in coffers and severely set back efforts to invest in the Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action.
“Small Island Developing States are in the midst of a global crisis,” said Hon. Alan Ganoo, Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of Mauritius. He continued, “We must send a collective message reaffirming our determination to address the complex challenges that we face.”
The eight AIS countries—Cabo Verde, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritius, Maldives, Seychelles, São Tomé e Príncipe, and Singapore—represent significant differences in exposure to climate change, natural hazards, and global markets. Since independence, some have developed strong economies, but their size and geographies leave them vulnerable to economic and ecological shocks.
Climate-related disasters such as severe storms, floods, and drought have almost doubled over the last 20 years, and they affect SIDS like no other countries. In a sudden-onset disaster, SIDS can lose everything overnight.
SIDS are responsible for only 0.2 per cent of global carbon emissions and yet suffer most from the impacts of climate change. The constant cycle of disaster and recovery leaves them weakened and unable to build resilience.
“The eight SIDS spread between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and the South China Sea are as diverse as communities can be,” said Li Jinhua, United Nations Under-Secretary General for Economic and Social Affairs, and Secretary-General of the 2024 SIDS Conference. “The United Nations is committed to supporting these islands in their quest for a more resilient and sustainable future. They may be geographically remote, but their problems are not theirs to face alone.”
19 per cent of the coral reefs in the world are in SIDS’ waters. The combined Exclusive Economic Zones of Mauritius and Seychelles – the waters they control – are bigger than the size of India. The meeting will assert that a sustainable future for the planet relies on a renewed and strengthened partnership between all island nations and the international community.
The Mauritius meeting is the first regional review meeting on the path to the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, taking place in Antigua and Barbuda in 2024. Further regional meetings will be held this summer in Tonga for the Pacific region and in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the Caribbean. These meetings will be followed by a final interregional gathering in Cabo Verde.
The Antigua and Barbuda conference next year will undertake a comprehensive review of the implementation of the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (S.A.M.O.A.) Pathway, a major international development compact agreed in 2014.
The Mauritius meeting will adopt an outcome document with recommendations that will feed directly into preparations for the 2024 Conference. The meeting will bring together ministers and senior government officials from SIDS across the region alongside representatives of development partners and the UN system.
For more information
UN 2024 SIDS Conference: www.un.org/smallislands
Social media
Please follow any highlights and updates for the 2024 SIDS Conference using the hashtags #SIDS4 and #SmallIslands.
On Facebook: United Nations, Global GoalsUN, UN DESA, OHRLLS
On Twitter: @UN, @GlobalGoalsUN, @UNDESA, @SustDev, @UNOHRLLS Media contact Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States | Conor O’Loughlin | conor.oloughlin@un.org
On Twitter: @UN, @GlobalGoalsUN, @UNDESA, @SustDev, @UNOHRLLS Media contact Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States | Conor O’Loughlin | conor.oloughlin@un.org
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Press Release
15 June 2022
First Multi-Sector Policy Dialogue between the Government of Seychelles and the United Nations Country Team
The first Multi-Sector Policy Dialogue between the Government of Seychelles and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT), was held on 19 May 2022.
The Dialogue was organized as an open and constructive exchange between Seychelles’ Ministers and other representatives from both the Government and the UN, in order to reflect on the country’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic and to identify priority areas of support and cooperation for the next UN-Seychelles Strategic Partnership Framework (SPF 2024-2028) in parallel with the country’s National Development Strategy (NDS).
The UN Resident Coordinator expressed the commitment of the United Nations through collective engagement to contribute to Seychelles development aspirations, moving from recovery to sustainable development, with a focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The two co-chairs recognised the excellent collaboration that exists between Seychelles and the United Nations, which extends over a broad scope of areas. The delegates exchanged experiences and best practices on possible cooperation on a number of issues of common interest, including the priority areas outlined for the next NDS, namely Transformative Economy, Environment Sustainability, Climate Change, Human Rights, Law and Order, Health, Social Affairs, Education and Culture.
Minister Radegonde and the UNRC Umutoni also acknowledged the role that the United Nations can play in advocating for Seychelles’ priorities and vulnerabilities as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). Both sides also agreed to work in synergy as a way forward, for the benefit and improvement of the socio-economic development of the country, post COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister Radegonde took the opportunity to reiterate the appreciation of the Government for the continued support of the United Nations Agencies towards Seychelles.
The High-Level Policy Dialogue represents one of the key outcomes of the UNCT Annual Retreat being held in Seychelles from 18 to 20 May 2022.
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Press Release
24 May 2022
President Ramkalawan receives United Nations Resident Coordinator
The Resident Coordinator presented to His Excellency her delegation of 10 Heads of Agencies who are in Seychelles to attend the annual United Nations Country Team held in Mahe. The purpose of the strategic retreat is to review work done so far and prepare for the future through a high-level policy dialogue with government. The theme of the UNCT retreat is “let’s walk together beyond recovery to long term development”.
President Ramkalawan extended a warm welcome to the Resident Coordinator and her delegation whilst conveying appreciation of the long-standing strategic partnership between the United Nations and Seychelles and the significant role it played in supporting the country through the COVID-19 crisis. The President also emphasized the importance of moving away from the siloed approach to development and instead working in synergy to ensure efficient utilization of resources for socio-economic recovery.
The UN team congratulated the President on a successful election and for the peaceful transfer of power, and Seychelles’ effective response to the COVID crisis. Ms. Christine N. Umutoni also thanked the President for the opportunity to meet with him to discuss national development priorities. She highlighted the timeliness of the meeting as the UN initiates the process for a new cooperation framework with Seychelles.
Speaking at the request of the Resident Coordinator on behalf of the UN, the regional director for UNESCO, recognized the devastating impact of COVID-19 in highlighting the vulnerability of small island developing states. He identified the importance of economic diversification and emphasized the UN’s capacity to mobilize knowledge and expertise at national, regional and global levels, and to facilitate collaboration and exchange between countries in the region.
Also present was the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde.
Members of the UN agencies included: Mr. Hubert Gijzen UNESCO Regional Director for Eastern Africa and Representative, Ms. Zebib Kavuma, UN Women Deputy Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Mr. Frank Turyatunga, UNEP Acting Director and Regional Representative Africa Office, Ms. Amanda Serumaga, UNDP Resident Representative for Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr. Charles Mbuli Boliko, FAO Representative for Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros, Mr. Coffi Agossou, ILO, Country Office Director for Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr. Jude Padayachy, UNAIDS Country Director for Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, Mr. Koffi Kouame, UNFPA Representative for Madagascar and Country Director for Comoros, Mauritius, and Seychelles, Dr. Rex Mpanzanje, WHO Representative for Seychelles, Ms. Celine Lemmel, IOM Head of Mission for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms. Janee Connery Communication and Advocacy Officer at RCO.
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Press Release
06 October 2021
Training to Build Resilience for Shaping a Better Future: UNITAR Improves Climate Change Preparedness for COP26
In November, the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will convene in Glasgow. In light of this, UNITAR, the UN Resident Coordinator's Office for Mauritius and Seychelles, the Group of 77, and China implemented a series of e-Workshops on Climate Change Diplomacy to support the educational development of delegates and representatives. These training sessions aimed to build the capacities of government officers on climate change negotiations and provide them with essential knowledge for the upcoming COP26. The design of the workshops enabled high-level officials to extensively develop their knowledge, competency, and train their negotiation skills.
To lead the discussion on the challenges of COP26, UNITAR selected Mr. Marcelo Rocha, an agronomist, land use expert, and lead coordinating author at the IPCC, and Ms. Ana Kleymeyer, former Senior Advisor to the Argentinian Secretary of the Environment. The trainers highlighted the paramount agreements in their history, as well as the terminologies and concepts of climate finance that are beneficial to Small Island Developing States (SIDS), such as Mauritius and Seychelles, in addition to providing background information on the history of COP and UNFCCC.
During the workshops, participants discussed the concerns raised at COP25 and the transition from one conference to another. The workshops provided officials of Mauritius and Seychelles with the appropriate background knowledge on the International Climate Change Policy Framework, the causes and impacts of climate change, and key negotiation skills.
Through a tailor-made simulation exercise, participants had the opportunity to build their resilience for formal and informal negotiations in COP processes. The simulation exercise supported officials in developing their positions and interests as well as in expanding their capacity-building skills.
The Online Climate Change Diplomacy Training for G77 and China Chairmanship Team was the final event in the series. It prepared high-level diplomats to the technical, procedural, and political knowledge required in chairing roles. Participants were trained to strengthen and expand their interpersonal skills and stakeholder engagement, capacities that will prove vital to achieving the conference objectives.
The UNITAR e-Workshops on Climate Change Diplomacy are an opportunity for delegates and representatives to get a better appreciation of what to expect from COP26 while sharing best practices with distinguished colleagues. Bringing together experts and professionals in one virtual environment has allowed a huge number of diplomats from many countries to enhance climate change awareness and to build resilience in anticipation of the critical stakes that surround the upcoming COP26.
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Press Release
01 September 2021
Seychelles ENV - Examen national volontaire 2020
Le Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies aux droits de
l'homme (HCDH) met à disposition des outils et des
méthodes qui peuvent aider à intégrer les informations et
analyses existentes en matière de droits de l'homme dans les
examens nationaux volontaires. Ces outils peuvent guider le
suivi des progrès réalisés au niveau national et identifier les
points d'accélération pertinents. Une telle information peut contribuer à ce que le processus
d'examen national volontaire prenne en compte des questions
telles que les inégalités, la discrimination, la reddition de
compte, l'état de droit, la participation et l'inclusion, en
guidant la manière dont l'ENV est préparé.
L'analyse des droits de l'homme peut aider à rendre compte
de la mise en oeuvre des ODD qui sont liés à des droits tels
que l'eau, la santé, le logement. Elle peut aussi aider à
identifier les groupes qui risquent d'être laissés de côté, ceux
qui sont le plus laissés de côté et les moyens de prendre en
compte leur situation de manière effective. Lier
systématiquement les processus de suivi du Programme 2030
et des droits de l'homme contribue également à réduire la
charge liée à l'élaboration de rapports.
l'homme (HCDH) met à disposition des outils et des
méthodes qui peuvent aider à intégrer les informations et
analyses existentes en matière de droits de l'homme dans les
examens nationaux volontaires. Ces outils peuvent guider le
suivi des progrès réalisés au niveau national et identifier les
points d'accélération pertinents. Une telle information peut contribuer à ce que le processus
d'examen national volontaire prenne en compte des questions
telles que les inégalités, la discrimination, la reddition de
compte, l'état de droit, la participation et l'inclusion, en
guidant la manière dont l'ENV est préparé.
L'analyse des droits de l'homme peut aider à rendre compte
de la mise en oeuvre des ODD qui sont liés à des droits tels
que l'eau, la santé, le logement. Elle peut aussi aider à
identifier les groupes qui risquent d'être laissés de côté, ceux
qui sont le plus laissés de côté et les moyens de prendre en
compte leur situation de manière effective. Lier
systématiquement les processus de suivi du Programme 2030
et des droits de l'homme contribue également à réduire la
charge liée à l'élaboration de rapports.
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