The Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2010

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

FOREWORD BY THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL AFFAIRS AND EMPLOYMENT MR DOLOR C ERNESTA

It gives me great pleasure to present this first Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000. It is opportune that this Strategy, as the culmination of extensive deliberations and consultations at national level, is to be adopted at the start of a new millennium.

The Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 is firmly based on our Constitution in its recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and unalienable rights of all members of our society. It is a strategy which supports growth, gives priority to the poor and the vulnerable, encourages participation, and fosters tolerance, respect for human dignity, human rights and the law. It is a shared commitment by the Government of Seychelles and all its partners to ensure that we respond more effectively to the material and spiritual needs of our people, their families and the communities in which they live.

The formulation of the Strategy entailed a review of national progress in various sectors. We have noted Seychelles’ socio-economic achievements and the need to maintain these. We need to address outstanding as well as new and emerging social development issues. The Strategy also recognises that economic growth alone is not sufficient to ensure that the quality of life of all the people of Seychelles is improved.

The Strategy therefore calls for the adoption of an integrated approach; a partnership between all stakeholders to address the social development challenges of the new millennium directly and comprehensively. Social development issues and targets are identified in the strategy, accompanied by measurable quality of life indicators on which to base the evaluation of our efforts.

True and lasting success in the implementation of the strategy will not be possible without a concerted effort by all stakeholders in development. The Government therefore calls on individuals, families, religious groups, the private sector and non- governmental organisations to join together in a concerted effort to realise the aims of the strategy.

I wish to extend my sincere thanks to all those involved in the formulation of this Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000. I am proud to be able to present this National Strategy, and I am confident that, in true Seychellois fashion, we will rise to the challenges of implementing the Strategy in the years ahead.

Mr Dolor C. Ernesta

Minister for Social Affairs & Employment, October 2002

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The preparation of this strategy would not have been possible without the support and valuable contribution of a large number of individuals and organisations, who are too numerous to mention by name here. Special thanks go to the members of the Social Development Working Group, whose valuable sectoral reviews and inputs were central to the conception of the Strategy;

Members of the Working Group on Social Development ♦ Mrs M MacGaw (Chair) MESA ♦ Mr C Shamlaye (Vice chair) MOH ♦ Mrs M P Lloyd (Co-ordinator) NCC ♦ Mrs A Jolicoeur MESA ♦ Mr B Rassool MOI ♦ Mr P Nanty MLGYS ♦ Mrs M Pragassen MOH ♦ Mr P Sinon MFA ♦ Mrs E Etiennne MAMR ♦ Mr M Benstrong MFC ♦ Mr J J Pardiwalla FEA ♦ Mrs E Gedeon MEC ♦ Father G Rocca Roman Catholic Church ♦ Mr B Adonis FSWU ♦ Mrs M Gendron MAM ♦ Mr B Adeline MCD ♦ Mr B Renaud LUNGOS ♦ Mrs M B Furneau MTT The valuable contribution of all organisations and individuals who contributed to the five day Conference in 1999 at which the strategy was reviewed is acknowledged and appreciated, as this high level meeting of minds provided a productive and informative forum in which the Strategy was further developed.

Thanks are also extended to the task force appointed to integrate the Conference recommendations in the Strategy Paper comprising of Mr B Renaud, Mrs N Tirant- Gherardi, Dr C Shamlaye, Mrs N Gonthier, Father E Leon, and Mrs M P Lloyd. Similarly thanks are extended to all those who commented on and provided input for the strategy paper at various stages of its development.

Special thanks are extended to Ms V Hobart for her contribution in compiling the Strategy Paper, and to Mrs Marie Pierre Lloyd who assumed a pivotal role in seeing the Strategy through to completion in the capacity of Social Development Consultant. Lastly, special thanks go to the following persons for their assistance in the revision of the Strategy: Dr M Rosalie, Mr R Cafrine, Mr G Adonis, Mr D Socrate and Miss N Samson.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

CONTENTS

Forward by Mr. Dolor C. Ernesta, Minister for Social Affairs and Employment ______i Acknowledgements ______ii Table of contents ______iii

PART ONE 1. Statement on Social Development for Seychelles Beyond 2000 ______1

PART TWO

2. Background and Introduction ______4 2.1. Background ______4 2.2. Introduction ______6 3. Overview of Social Development ______9 3.1. Background ______9 3.1.1. Characteristics of the Economic and Social Situation up to 1977 ______9 3.1.2 General Features of the Economy ______9 3.1.2 General Features of the Social Situation ______10 3.1.2.1 Education ______10 3.1.2.2 Health ______11 3.1.2.3 Housing ______11 3.1.2.4 Public Work and Utilities ______11 3.1.2.5 Social Integration ______12 3.1.2.6 Public Transport ______13 3.2 Policies and Programmes for the Alleviation of Poverty______13 3.2.1 Economic Reforms______13 3.2.2 Education and Training ______14 3.2.3 Health ______15 3.2.4 Employment ______17 3.2.5 Housing ______17 3.2.6 Security Assistance ______18 3.2.7 Gender ______19 3.2.8 Land Transport ______20 3.2.9 Public Utilities ______20 3.2.10 Environment ______20 3.2.11 Culture and Sports ______21 4. Challenges For Sustaining Development ______22 4.1 Social Organisation ______22 4.1.1 The Individual ______22 4.1.2 The Family ______23 4.1.3 The Community ______23 4.1.4 Non Governmental Organisations ______24 4.1.5 Private Enterprises ______25 iii

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 4.1.6 The State______25 4.2 Social Issues ______26 4.2.1 Population ______26 4.2.2 Health ______26 4.2.3 Education ______27 4.2.4 Employment ______27 4.2.5 Environment ______28 4.2.6 Crime ______28 4.2.7 Social Security ______29 4.2.8 Housing ______29 4.3 Social Provision ______29 4.3.1 Prioritisation of Needs ______30 4.3.2 The Institutional Framework ______30 4.3.3 The syndrome of Social Issues ______30 4.3.4 Planning for Social Development ______30 5. Strategic Aims and Objectives ______32 5.1 Aims of the Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 ______32

5.2 Objectives of the Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 ______32 5.2.1 Objective One: The Alleviation of Poverty ______33 5.2.2 Objective Two: The Realisation of Distributive Justice ______34 5.2.3 Objective Three: The Enhancement of Popular Participation ______37 5.2.4 Objective Four An integrated Approach to Social Development ______39 6. Implementation Framework ______42 7. Selected References ______45 8. Appendix One: Social Development Framework for the Review of Sectoral Policy and Strategy ______47

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

1. STATEMENT ON SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT FOR SEYCHELLES BEYOND 2000

We, the Government and People of Seychelles,

1. Noting with concern that, despite favourable economic growth trends recorded in a number of developing countries, the long-term social objectives of the eradication of absolute poverty, the realisation of distributive justice, and enhancement of popular participation have for the most part yet to be achieved.

2. Noting the achievements in socio-economic development in our country and also the need to maintain these and to address outstanding as well as new and emerging problems.

3. Reiterating the fundamental human rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.

4. Bearing in mind the fundamental social objectives of development, as reiterated on various occasions since 1977 and as reflected in national and international instruments which Seychelles has ratified.

5. Referring to the importance and continuing relevance to the Seychelles of other international instruments concerning specific social groups and social development issues, particularly:

• The Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW),

• The Convention on the Rights of the Child, 20 November 1989

• The World Declaration on the Survival, Protection and Development of Children and Plan of Action for Implementing the World Declaration on the Survival, Protection and Development of Children in the 1990s,

• The Guidelines for Further Planning and Suitable Follow-up in the Field of Youth, 18 November 1985,

• The World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons, December 1982,

• The Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing, 6 August 1982,

• The Declaration of Alma Ata, adopted by the International Conference on Primary Health Care on 12 September 1978, and the Global Strategy for Health for All by the Year 2000, 22 May 1981,

• The World Declaration on Education for All and Framework for Action to Meet Basic Learning Needs, 9 March 1990,

• The Milan Plan of Action adopted on 6 September 1985 by the Seventh United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders, 29 November 1985,

• The United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Administration of Juvenile Justice (the Beijing Rules), 29 November 1985,

• The Declaration and Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Outline of Future Activities in Drug Abuse Control, 26 June 1987,

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 • The Environmental Perspective to the Year 2000 and Beyond, 11 December 1987,

• The Global Strategy for Shelter to the Year 2000, 20 December 1988,

• The Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development, March 1995

6. Reaffirm that the many social problems afflicting our country are closely interrelated, and that this situation requires a comprehensive, integrated and sustained policy, planning and programming response to provide for improvement in the quality of life of all Seychellois people;

7. Reaffirm that a number of pressing social issues associated with the imbalance between economic and social development require urgent, forceful and co-ordinated action by all partners in the development process.

8. Renew our commitment to the promotion of regional and international co-operation for social development, and to the proposition that the alleviation of poverty, realisation of distributive justice, and enhancement of popular participation constitute the fundamental objectives of the Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000.

9. Urge all partners, including non governmental organisations, private sector organisations, and government agencies, to take early and effective action:

a) To ensure that social development concerns receive appropriate consideration at the highest levels of government and decision making through their full integration into overall development policy, planning and programming and regular review by all concerned agencies and organisations;

b) To promote the involvement of government agencies, non-governmental organisations, the private sector and other concerned communities, groups and individuals in the formulation and implementation of social development policies and programmes through such means as the establishment or strengthening of inter- sectoral committees and the provision of policy support and resources;

c) To increase the professional capabilities of personnel responsible for the planning, programming and delivery of social services through the improvement of skills, knowledge and attitude training;

d) To encourage and support research on social development concerns and innovative approaches to development, and to mobilise resources for these purposes;

e) To strengthen procedures for monitoring, evaluation and revision of policies and programmes that have an impact on social progress at the national and local levels;

f) To ensure that sufficient resources are made available, through adequate budgetary allocations and the restructuring of public expenditure, to deal with critical social development concerns; Hereby adopt the Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000, with the basic objectives of promoting an integrated approach to development; the alleviation of

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 poverty, the realisation of distributive justice and the enhancement of popular participation, as contained in the supporting document annexed to this statement, keeping in mind the national policies and circumstances.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

2. BACKGROUND AND INTRODUCTION

2.1. BACKGROUND At its adoption of the International Development Strategy for the Fourth United Nations Development Decade (1991-2000) in 1990 the UN General Assembly noted that, for the most part, the goals of the International Development Strategy for the previous decade had not been attained. The General Assembly cautioned that, in the absence of major policy changes, the coming decade would suffer the same fate. It noted that among the major policy changes required were those dealing directly with social issues, which had been largely ignored in previous International Development Decades in the rush to accelerate economic growth.

Economic development has been recognised as necessary, but insufficient, for sustainable development. Globalisation has brought with it both new opportunities and new threats, and expanding prosperity for some has been accompanied by expanding poverty for others. Certain groups remain vulnerable to the stress and deprivation resulting from social isolation, marginalisation and instability. In addition, the ‘acute’ social ills of today - crime, drugs, disease, disaffection, - have consequences for human security in its widest sense. They are global concerns, requiring global attention. Even the strongest economies of today cannot escape the problems of poor social development, as manifested in poverty.

The World Summit for Social Development held in Copenhagen, Denmark from 6th-12th March 1995 established a Declaration and Programme of Action on Social Development that was ratified by a gathering of 177 Heads of State. The Copenhagen Declaration is a commitment to ‘a political, economic, ethical and spiritual vision for social development that is based on human dignity, human rights, equality, respect, peace, democracy, mutual responsibility and co-operation, and full respect for the various religious and ethical values and cultural backgrounds of people’. The Summit’s agreements reflect solidarity within and between nations, and have been heralded as a new social contract at the global level.

The Ten Commitments of the Copenhagen Declaration 1 engage nations to undertake a concerted Programme of Action around a people centred framework for Social Development. It calls for: Eradication of absolute poverty by a target date to be set by each country; Support of full employment as a basic policy goal; Promotion of social integration, based on the enhancement and protection of human rights; Achievement of equality and equity between women and men; Acceleration of the development of Africa and the least developed countries; Ensuring that structural adjustment programmes include social development goals; Increasing resources allocated to social development;

1 The Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action, United Nations, New York 1995:vii 4

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 Creation of “an economic, political, social, cultural and legal environment that will enable people to achieve social development”; Attainment of universal and equitable access to education and primary health care; Strengthening of co-operation for social development through the UN.

The declaration therefore calls for economies to be directed to meet human needs more effectively, including the integration of economic, cultural and social policies. It recognises the importance of maintaining the integrity and sustainability of environments, and the need to address inequity of income distribution and access to resources. The people centred framework also emphasises the need to respect diversity within and among societies, promoting tolerance, non-violence and non-discrimination. It calls for strategies which meet the needs of vulnerable, marginalised and disadvantaged groups.

The declaration also recognises that true and lasting success in putting these commitments into action calls for collective support at national and international levels. Governments will need to work in partnership with professional, grass roots and religious organisations, businesses, and non-governmental organisations to harness their expertise, talents and enthusiasm.

Primary responsibility for implementing the Summit's agreements was placed at national level, where the United Nations and its development agencies have pledged to provide support. Seychelles also pledged to play its part, and a high level Working Group for Social Development (WGSD) was set up in August 1996 by the Minister for Employment and Social Affairs, Mr William Herminie. The Working Group for Social Development was mandated to draft a statement and programme of action for social development in Seychelles, and comprised of representatives from the public and private sectors, churches and non-governmental organisations.

After detailed discussion of the social issues, concerns and challenges currently facing the country the WGSD made proposals and recommendations which were summarised as a discussion paper entitled ‘Social Development Strategy For Seychelles Beyond 2000’ for wider discussion and consultation. WGSD members recommended that the discussion paper be widely circulated in order to allow all stakeholders in the development of Seychelles to contribute tangibly to the planning of this new, integrated and enhanced approach to the social development of the Seychellois people. A national conference was held in July 1999 as part of this comprehensive sensitisation programme. A full report presenting the proceedings and recommendations of that conference is available for reference.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 2.2. Introduction

The Seychelles archipelago consists of around 115 islands. It is situated in the southwest of the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the Equator, and covers an area of 455 square kilometres. The islands were uninhabited until 1770, when its first settlers (28 people) landed and settled on the island of St Anne. The French occupied the island until 1812, when it became a British colony until its independence in 1976. The population is made up of a mixture of races, which are predominantly of East African and European origins, being mainly descendents of the French settlers and freed slaves.

At 42,415 in 1960 (Table 1), the population has grown steadily, and by the end of the year 2000 it was estimated at 81,131, with a population density of 178 square kilometres. In recent years, the annual growth rate has been below 1%. The population is projected to reach 93,270 by the year 2009. Fertility has dropped from very high levels since the late 1960s, and the total fertility rate has currently reached replacement level (2.1). Due to declining fertility, the average age of the population is rising. In this regard, the population under 15 has dropped between 1960 and 1997, while that of the 65 years and above has gradually risen. Mortality levels for both infants and adults are low and comparable to those of developed countries.

Table 1 Selected Demographic Indicators, 1960-2009 . Indicators 1960 1971 1977 1987 1994 1997 2009* Total population 41425 52889 61898 68598 74331 75876 93270 Crude Birth Rate per 41.1 31.2 27.7 24.5 23.0 19.1 19.5 1,000 (CBR) Crude Death Rate per 10.8 8.4 7.4 7.4 7.6 7.8 7.5 1,000 (CDR) Annual intercensal growth 1.4 2.2 2.6 1.0 1.2 0.7 1.0 rate (%) Total Fertility Rate (TFR) - 6.0 5.18 3.26 2.60 2.14 2.3 Infant Mortality Rate 57.8 33.2 28.9 18.4 8.4 8.1 - (IMR) Life expectancy Males 60.8 61.8 62.5 67.3 68.6 66.0 - Females 65.9 67.9 69.9 74.2 76.7 77.2 - Total 63.4 64.9 66.2 70.8 72.3 71.6 - Sex ratio (males to 96.0 99.4 101.4 99.0 99.8 98.2 96.7 females) Percentage age distribution (%) <15 38.5 43.6 39.7 33 .7 30.5 30.5 26.3 15-64 55.3 50.1 53.8 59.2 62.2 62.2 66.8 64+ 6.2 6.3 7.1 7.2 7.3 6.9 6.4 Dependency ratio (%) 80.9 - 85.8 68.9 60.7 57.2 49.7 Note: * Projections Source: Management Information Systems Division (MISD).

For a long period, the Seychelles was a poor country with a low per capita income and much unemployment and under-employment. With a population of approximately 61,000 people by 1977, the situation was such that there was a small group of people who were very rich and owed most of the means of production (capital and land) while the large majority were living in poverty. Earnings for most people were insufficient to cover for living expenses.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 The government maintained its services only through grants-in-aid from the United Kingdom. The opening of the Seychelles International Airport in 1971 and the subsequent development in the tourism industry has significantly transformed the economy. The per capita income has grown from $1000 in 1976 to around $7,000 in the year 2000.

Social development is concerned with the development of human societies in their totality. It is a process whose ultimate aim is to improve, to the optimum, the material, social, cultural, spiritual, moral and political livelihood of the people. It is development with people as the focus, seeking to develop their potentialities in a total sense. It is inconceivable today to adopt economic development policies and programmes without taking into account social development. A growth process that maintains or even increases the disparities between the rich minorities and the poor majorities is not real development. In recognition of this, and realising that people should be at the centre of development, it has been the overriding principle of the government since 1977 to transform the country from poverty to prosperity.

The government is committed to devising and implementing development strategies that deliver on its policies of meeting basic needs and progressively making available opportunities to satisfy emerging secondary needs consistent with the norms of an inclusive decent society. Through a careful planning process, it thus aims to meet primary needs in the fields of health, education, housing, employment, social welfare and cultural development. Developments in these, as well as other fields, such as tourism and environment, have earned the country an outstanding place in the world. The Seychelles is classified among the highest in Africa with respect to human development. The United Nations Development Programme’s Human Development Index ranked the Seychelles 58 th in 1998, compared to 61 st in 1991 . Currently, Seychelles is ranked 47 th worldwide and has joined a select group of 53 countries with high human development.

For most of the 1980s up to the early 1990s, the public sector and parastatal organisations, dominated the employment and the productive sector as a whole. However, with the opening up of the economy during the 1990s, the government gradually moved away from the productive sectors, through careful liberalisation and privatisation programmes. As a result, the role of the government has become more that of a facilitator. In addition, the government has put in place a number of incentives aimed at encouraging local and attracting foreign investments in order to enable the private sector to create employment and wealth. Hence, a number of consultative mechanisms, for example, the National Tripartite Employment and Labour Council (NTELC), have been created in the spirit of continuous dialogue and partnership with all stakeholders in development.

A detailed analysis of the evolution of social development in the Seychelles during the past decades as well as future sectoral plans regarding social development is beyond the scope of this document. In the main, this part of the Strategy offers some of the general characteristics of the economic and social situation in the Seychelles in the period preceding Independence, the key policies and programmes adopted by the government since 1977 to fight poverty, the challenges for sustainable development, the strategic aims and objectives of the strategy and its implementation framework. Note however that

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 due to a lack of detailed and documented information, data and indicators for the period prior to 1977, it has not always been possible to follow a consistent and objective method of reporting.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

3. OVERVIEW OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

3.1. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL SITUATION UP TO 1977

3.1.1 GENERAL FEATURES OF THE ECONOMY

For most of the period leading up to mid-1970, the economy was stagnant, with a limited agricultural and industrial base. The economic condition of the people depended fundamentally on two things: the export value of copra and cinnamon, and the recurrent and capital expenditure of the government, supported by budgetary and development aid from the United Kingdom. For example, in 1974 copra and cinnamon together made up 90% of all the visible domestic exports. The income generated by other activities such as vanilla, patchouli, cloves and guano was relatively small.

There were practically no commercial farmers up to mid-1970. The agricultural sector was more of an informal sector of the economy in which many people gained a living in other occupations and supplemented their income by running a small farm. The same situation more or less applied to manufacturing industries. While there were about 50 establishments, including mainly tailoring, dressmaking, boat-building, printing, furniture- making and local handicrafts in 1976, they operated on a very small scale.

After many decades of economic stagnation, Seychelles entered the road of modernisation with the opening of the Seychelles international airport in 1971. Tourism became the major industry and the most important source of foreign exchange. At first, the development of tourism was largely confined to Mahé, but gradually it spread to include most of the granitic islands and a few Outer Islands. From a very negligible contribution in the 1960s, tourism increased its share of the GDP from 8% in 1972 to approximately 18% in 1976.

Some of the main factors responsible for the low economic development up to around 1977 were:

Rapid population growth with inadequate methods for controlling the rate of growth Lack of suitable land for agriculture Lack of resources suitable for manufacturing industries Lack of ‘local investment’ by many of those in the community who owned the major assets Physical isolation from and poor communications with the outside world, as well as between the various islands A long history of dependence on others and the lack of local autonomy among the mass of the population A general attitude of ‘defeatism’ in all the levels of the population which discouraged local development, investment and growth Lack of organised lines of communications which reached down to the ‘grass roots’ of the population

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 A general lack of understanding that achievement of a self-supporting economy requires capital investment in areas which are generative (i.e. reproduce original capital) rather than on grants-in-aid.

3.1.2. GENERAL FEATURES OF THE SOCIAL SITUATION

In the social field, the large majority of the people were faced with deprivation and extreme poverty. In addition to poor standards of education and health, lack of employment, low income, inadequate housing and safety nets programmes, there were also problems such as large families, cases of malnutrition and neglect and alcoholism.

3.1.2.1. EDUCATION

The education system before 1977 was one in which those who could pay received quality education, and those who could not, received an inadequate service. In 1960 only 46% of the population was literate, and the remaining 54% was illiterate. The possibility to attend school, both primary and secondary, was not guaranteed for a number of people. For example, hitherto secondary schooling was available to a limited number of pupils at the end of their six years in primary standards. It was in 1965, following a decision taken in 1963 and 1964 that all children who had completed their primary schooling had the opportunity of at least two years of secondary education. By the end of secondary schooling, selected students proceeded to special technical and vocational courses, mainly at the Technical School and the Teacher Training College.

The two fee-paying grammar schools, Seychelles College and Regina Mundi Convent, provided bursaries for only a few selected pupils whose parents could not afford to pay tuition fees. For example, only 12% of primary school leavers could be admitted to the two schools in 1975. The Seychelles College had a Sixth Form, which provided a two-year course leading to Cambridge Advanced Level examinations in several subjects. Higher education, through scholarships to overseas institutions, was made available mainly to students who were privileged to take the two-year course.

Due primarily to insufficient funds, Government involvement in pre-school education was on a very limited scale before 1977. Pre-school education was mainly the concern of voluntary organisations, such as the Children’s Society, or of individuals. The Ministry of Education and Social Development in existence in 1976, encouraged the development of crèches in social centres.

Although by 1976, following recommendations made in 1973 concerning adult education, advances were being made in the field of adult education, its coverage, both in terms of courses and participation, was low to serve as a good base for the future development. Overall, the poor levels of literacy and general standard of education meant that it was necessary to bring in expatriates for most of the non-traditional economic activities.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

3.1.2.2. HEALTH

Prior to 1977 the health care system was not accessible to all. Health delivery, including dental services, was urban-centred and provided mostly through private practice. Health services to the paying public were provided mainly at the Victoria hospital and two small health centres in South Mahé and Praslin. The following indicates the standard of health care up to around mid-1970:

A high infant mortality rate, 32.3 per 1000 in 1976 A high prevalence of Tuberculosis (TB) - the decline in the incidence of this disease started in mid-1960, but it was in 1976, with the closure of the TB sanatorium that the diseases became virtually eradicated A lack of medical professionals – at Independence, in 1976, there were no more than 15 doctors and 5 dentists practicing.

It has to be noted that poverty also contributed to the poor public health and environmental hygiene of the population, which were often manifested in cases of under- nourishment among children and intestinal parasitic infestation.

3.1.2.3. HOUSING

The housing situation was critical, and little attention was paid to solving the problem. There was a growing shortage of housing and land, and extremely high rents. People lived in deplorable conditions in places like the back streets of Victoria, as well as in many other parts of the suburbs and rural areas. Houses in these areas were usually small and overcrowded with no proper sanitation, ventilation and drainage.

The colonial government attempted to solve the housing problem by subsidising the construction of a limited number of cottages for agricultural workers on private farms and by constructing some small and rather inadequate low cost houses on Crown Land. The Low- Cost Housing Scheme started in 1964, and by 1968 a number of these houses were built on Mahé (Quincy Village, Les Mamelles, Corgate Estate and Anse Aux Pins), Praslin and La Digue.

In 1971 less that 30% of housing units were constructed of concrete block, and only 22% and 19% had tap water and flush toilets respectively. The rate of owner occupation was low, at 43%. As the sole provider of housing, the government was helped to lighten the heavy burden of the great housing demand by the Sociéte du Logement, a semi- philanthropic society, established by the Union Chretienne Seychelloise.

3.1.2.4. PUBLIC WORK AND UTILITIES

In the rural areas a number of houses were strewn about over mountain slopes and, in some cases, they were almost inaccessible. The inaccessibility of these houses made it difficult to assist their occupants with electricity, water, proper sanitation, medical care etc. Access to adequate water supplies was available to a small majority of the population.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 The large majority availed themselves with clean water from taps, rivers, streams or wells, where, in most cases, they had to travel long distances. The establishment of a comprehensive potable water supply system in the 1960s resulted in the construction of the Rochon Dam in 1969, the Cascade Treatment Works in 1975 and the La Gogue Dam in 1979.

The extension of electricity supply, especially on Mahé, developed rapidly as from 1968. By 1973 a power station with two 2,500 kw diesel generators was built on reclaimed land at the New Port. This was followed in 1975 with the installation of a generator with a firm capacity of 7, 380 kw. Despite this progress, less than half of all households had access to electricity by 1977.

3.1.2.5. SOCIAL INTEGRATION

Another feature of the social situation was the lack of policies to ensure the integration of the Seychellois society. At the time of Independence, the distribution of income was very skewed, and Seychellois in general received very low wages. For example, in 1963, the minimum wage for male labourers was raised from Rs 60 to Rs 72 per month and that for female labourers was raised from Rs 36 to Rs 45 per month. Families had to depend on overtime and other members’ financial support in order to achieve an adequate standard of living. Many families had to remove their young children from school to help by looking after younger ones whilst parents were out at work. In addition to low wages, job security was minimal for most workers and there were no effective trade unions.

Despite the lack of statistics, it is believed that there was a great deal of unemployment, under-employment and hidden unemployment. It is estimated that there were approximately 3,000 young people in need of employment, whether or not they were actively seeking work in 1976. Apprenticeship training was provided mainly by the Public Works Department, the Seychelles Technical School, the Teacher Training College and the Roman Catholic Mission.

A welfare system for the most vulnerable groups in society was almost non-existent. The extra care to children, the elderly, the disabled and other disadvantaged groups was very minimal. The main institutions for the elderly were the Fiennes Institute and the Anse Louis Settlement. The Fiennes Institute provided (and continues to provide) a home and medical care for the aged, destitute, and infirm. The Anse Louis Settlement, with twelve houses, provided for those aged persons from government estates and those discharged from Curieuse Leper Settlement who were unable to earn a living and had no relatives to support them. It was run as subsidiary to the Fiennes Institute.

Before the opening of the Cheshire Home, orphaned children left in the care of unreliable or disinterested relatives, were sometimes ‘dumped’ at the Children’s Ward of the Victoria Hospital. The St. Elizabeth Sisters ran (and continue to run) two orphanages, the Foyer de la Providence, at La Rosière, and the Foyer de Nazareth, at Anse Etoile.

The participation of women in economic, political and social spheres was very limited. Women were employed mainly on plantations and estates in the local industries dealing with

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 copra, cinnamon, vanilla, tea picking, and also coir factories. Mothers wishing to go to work found themselves hampered by the lack of facilities such as day care centres where children of up to four years could be looked after while they go to work.

3.1.2.6. PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Public transport is another area where the bulk of the population was underserved. Workers generally availed themselves with public transport services ( camions ) operated mainly between the more populous centres of Mahé by private firms or individual owners. These small private buses were lacking both in terms of quantity and quality to meet the needs of the majority of the travelling public on Mahé. While the road improvement and construction programme which had been in progress since the late 1950s provided many miles of surfaced roads, it was difficult to service several parts of the country due to poor road facilities.

3.2. POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE ALLEVIATION OF POVERTY

June 1977 marked the beginning of a series of changes aimed at modifying the socio- economic situation that had prevailed up through 1977. In view of the facts described above, the Seychelles People’s United Party’s (SPUP) government, renamed Seychelles People’s Progressive Front (SPPF) in 1978, started on a course that was to take Seychelles from its post-colonial under-development to a more equitable and more economically secured nation. Overall, sustainable development plans have been pursued with the following results.

3.2.1 ECONOMIC REFORMS

The first decade after Liberation saw a vigorous commitment of government in economic infrastructures. The process for nation building started with a series of five-year National Development Plans (NDP) and an expanding role for the public sector. The first NDP started in 1978, and these plans went up to 1990-94. This last NDP (1990-94) was replaced by a three-year financial programme, the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP). One of the most important instruments of economic reforms has been the creation of parastatal organisations. Most of them were created between 1980 and 1982 to carry out economic activities in the areas of Agriculture, Fisheries, Outer Islands, Tourism and Import and Export. By mid-1984 there were some 30 parastatals in operation.

A wide range of economic incentives have been put in place as a result of the downsizing of the public sector since the early 1990s. These comprise mainly the Industrial Promotion Act and the Seychelles International Trade Zone (SITZ). The SITZ is a third pillar (after tourism and fisheries) added to the economy in a manner to broaden the economic base, and it came into existence in 1995. The Indian Ocean Tuna (IOT), formerly the Conserverie De L’Ocean Indien, is currently the biggest company in the SITZ. Added impetus is being given to small business development through various services, either through the small business bureau (Seychelles Industrial Development Corporation), infrastructure, training courses and promotion facilities, both local and abroad.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

3.2.2. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

The government has adopted a number of measures in the field of education, which from the initial stage of implementation (January 1978) laid the new principles and foundations for sustained development in this sector. The national education system is based on three fundamental principles: education for all, education for life and education for personal and national development. The main strategies developed to translate these principles into action are:

Building of new schools, including kindergartens (crèches) Introduction of higher education Development of the national scholarship programme Improvement of adult education Institutionalisation of accelerated vocational training Creation of training outside the national education system

Introduced in 1981, the Seychelles Polytechnic, is the main institution of higher education. Today it runs a number of academic courses (both pre-University and University levels) in areas such as Sciences, Business and Humanities. The School of Continuing Education promotes adult education in a variety of disciplines, and plays a vital role in the reduction of illiteracy on a national scale.

Among the number of training centres now in operation across the country is the National Institute of Education. It became operational in 1998, and its aim is to better equipped and prepare teachers for their future tasks and roles. With respect to the implementation of the scholarship programme, the government has invested heavily in scholarships in order to train as many young Seychellois as possible to take up management and other technical positions in the country. This is in accordance with the policy for localization of posts held by expatriates.

The Seychelles Institute of Management (SIM) is the main training institution outside the national education system. Created in 1982 as an Accountancy Training College, it has become a management development institute offering a diverse range of courses and management support services for the public and private sectors.

Having successfully achieved the objectives of equal accessibility to basic education, emphasis has since mid-1990 shifted to achieving excellence in education. Education has also reached the stage were the private sector is contributing more than before to the development of education. There are presently three registered private schools. Two are offering both primary and secondary education and the third only primary education.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

3.2.3. HEALTH

Government recognises health care as a basic human right, and has altered the previous system of health care to make it available and accessible to all Seychellois. The national health system provides a service based on needs, and the ability to pay does affect the way that services are delivered. Since the late 1970s, government has adopted the principle of ‘Health for All by the year 2000’ of the World Health Organisation. Guided by this vision, tremendous investment, especially with respect to primary health care (PHC), has been made in health services and facilities. The key elements of PHC are: equity and social justice, integrated and comprehensive health service, inter-sectoral collaboration and community involvement.

Investments in health care services in recent years are reflected across a range of health indicators shown below.

Table 2 Selected Health Indicators, 1970 – 2000

Indicators 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000

Infant Mortality Rate(per 39.8 35.4 17.5 17.9 13.0 18.3 9.9 1,000) Under five Mortality - 212.5 101.4 85.4 44.2 61 36.2 Rate(per 1,000) Maternal Mortality - - 58.6 57.8 61.8 63.2 0.00 Ratio(per 10,000) 2 Expectation of Life at - - 66.2 - - 66.1 67.9 birth(male) Expectation of Life at - - 73.5 - - 77.7 77.9 Birth (Female) Population/Doctor Ratio - - 1,543.0 1,470.7 1,198.4 865.6 854.0

Population/Nurses Ratio - - 419.0 226.5 246.5 228.2 210.7 Contraceptive Prevalence - - 36.6 - - 36.8 46.4 Rate(%) 3 Notes

1. Additional health indicators are shown in Table 1, p.6 Data are not readily available for the calculation of most of the missing estimates in Table 2. 2. The annual number of maternal deaths between 1978 and 2000 was either one or zero. The exception was 1998 when 2 maternal deaths were recorded. 3. CPR in 1977 was 29.8% CPR in 1995 was low compared to 1994 (56.9%) due to a reduction in the number of users of contraceptives, including sterilisation.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 As part of its responsibility to educate the population on health risks, i.e. how to better promote their personal health as well as preventive health, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with various organisations, notably the Ministry of Education and media agencies, has made progress in its health education programme. While the programme is targeted towards the population as a whole, the youth is at the centre of most of the sensitisation programmes. The Personal and Social Education (PSE), integrated in the school curriculum in the Ministry of Education, and the Youth Health Centre are two of the most important mechanisms through which young people can understand and make important choices regarding health.

A comprehensive elderly care programme exists to ensure healthy and active ageing. These include proper accommodation, home care, home visits by medical officers and many more. The Ministry of Local Government Youth and Sports initiative for "Klib Trazyenm Az" (Senior Citizens' Club) has turned out to be immensely popular with its programme for active ageing which includes cultural, spiritual and other active and healthy living activities.

The private sector’s continued involvement in the health service provides an important complementary element of health care. The government will continue to support the development and expansion of private health care as long as a degree of quality remains checked.

3.2.4. EMPLOYMENT

In its continuous effort to alleviate poverty, government has been faced with the challenge of employment creation and raising the income levels of the most vulnerable workers. Priority has been given to achieving the goal of full employment through various programmes and reforms. The Full Employment Scheme (FES) and the Work Experience Programme (WEP) have been the main initiatives towards the reduction of unemployment. Created in 1980, the aim of the FES was to provide temporary employment on a part-time basis to the needy at a minimum salary. In 1984, as part of government reforms, the WEP was initiated and later enacted in 1985. Its aim was similar to that of FES, except that it targeted young people such as school leavers and dropouts and those not admitted to the Polytechnic. In 1995 the FES was phased out to be replaced by the Unemployment Relief Scheme. Government has endeavoured to increasingly adopt the role of facilitator; creating the enabling environment for the private sector to invest and create employment and national wealth.

As part of further reforms in the employment and manpower planning sectors, in 1994 the Centre for Skills Development (CSD) was created and enacted in 1995. The CSD in the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment coordinates a number of programmes aimed at engaging youths and school leavers into employment, skills training and also small business enterprises. These programmes are the Youth Enterprise Scheme and the Youth Training Scheme. The latter programme was phased out in 1999 and was replaced by the Industrial Training Centre. Over its 6 year existence, over 6,000 youths have been registered with CSD, and the majority have received appropriate training and are in gainful employment. The apprenticeship scheme initiated in 1994 16

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 acquired new dimension with the creation of the ITC in 1999. It currently covers the areas of construction and engineering. Plans are being implemented to expand into the areas of tourism, agriculture and maritime

The minimum employment age is 15 years, although it is 18 years in some establishments. Government has put in place a number of incentives and remuneration systems to be as competitive as the private sector. The average monthly income is now RS 3,448 compared to RS 2,837 in 1993. The minimum wage has increased over time, and it is currently around RS 1,900. A revised Employment Law came into effect in 1999. One of the new additions is to make it compulsory for the private sector to pay gratuity to its employees after five years of employment.

3.2.5. HOUSING

Due to the planning process to tackle the housing problem, significant improvement in the quality and quantity of housing as well as the availability of infrastructures, such as roads, electricity and water to facilitate housing construction, have been made. The government’s policy on housing is to make it possible for each family to have its own home either through their own means or through government assistance by way of loans or already built houses or flats. Two of the main instruments for the realisation of the housing policy are the Seychelles Housing Development Corporation (SHDC) and the Land Bank Project.

The SHDC was established in 1981 with the aim of providing housing loans at low interest rates to those least able to afford or obtain finance to purchase, build or extend their homes. Between 1977 and 1991 home ownership was promoted in several ways, including self- and State-built houses, loans (principally from the State) and improvement grants to pensioners. This has resulted in a remarkable reduction in inadequate housing. For example, the percentage of inadequate housing dropped from 13% in 1987 to 7.8% in 1994.

The involvement of private sector in housing development has been encouraged through a number of incentives. These include tax exemptions on new buildings built for residential purposes, repeal of the tenant’s Right Act and the creation of the Mortgage Finance Company as a joint venture between two parastatals, the Seychelles Savings Bank and the Development Bank of Seychelles.

Like many former colonial territories, most land in the Seychelles was privately owned by Independence. Recognising that uncontrolled dealing in land is socially undesirable in that it makes it difficult to obtain land for purposes such as housing, the government has acquired and redistributed land through compulsory acquisition under the Land Acquisition Act of 1977. The main mechanism for the provision of affordable land to those in need of housing is the Land Bank Project, which started in 1991. The nature of the project is such that the government acquires or buys identified plots of land, which are subdivided and distributed on the basis of priority needs. The price offered to

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 client includes that for the land and the associated infrastructures, namely roads, electricity and water.

3.2.6. SECURITY ASSISTANCE

It is the commitment of the government to ensure that the priorities and challenges of economic development do not supercede the social commitments. The social welfare system is one which aims at ensuring that all Seychellois enjoys an adequate standard of living. Special emphasis is given to those who are considered as less fortunate or vulnerable to guarantee that they do not live in poverty, and also to ensure that in light of economic development priorities, they are not marginalised. Since the late 1970s, government has invested heavily in social welfare in terms of social security assistance and social services. These services provide for old age pensions, sickness benefits and special assistance programmes for disadvantaged groups, such as the chronically ill, physically and mentally disabled or those disadvantaged by employment.

The range of benefits currently in operation is displayed below (Table 2). Previously persons who qualified for assistance under the Scheme were mainly referrals by hospitals or after having personally contacted the headquarters of the central agency regarding welfare assistance (Social Affairs Division). Since the early 1990s, the services have been decentralised to district levels. In addition to the Social Security benefits, there is a wide range of mechanisms in place to effectively discharge as best as possible a high level of welfare service. These comprise mainly: the Social Services Section, the Rehabilitation Centre, the Home Care Unit, the Family Tribunal, the Presidents’ Village (for orphans) and various high level committees and councils.

There are also a number of NGOs with complementing roles of various forms, such as the National Council for Children, offering therapy and counselling services.

Table 3 Benefits and rates per month, 1994-2001.

Type Of Benefits 1994 2000 2001 Sickness 775 1,075 1,130 Maternity 775 1,075 1,130 Injury 775 1,075 1,130 Level Of Subsistence (Supplementary Benefit) 775 1,075 - Orphan and abandoned Child 475 640 670 Funeral Benefit 1500 1,500 1,500 Invalidity (Standard Rate) 950 1,300 1,300 Survivor’s Including Widow’s, Widowed Mother’s, 775 1,075 1,130 Industrial Death Retirement Pension 1050 1,350 1,400 Dependent’s 1. Adult 350 525 550 2. Each Child 325 475 500 Disabled Benefit 775 1,075 1,130 Source: Social Security Fund.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

3.2.7. GENDER Important strides have been made in transforming the conditions of women for fuller participation in development. The constitutional rights of women, among others are: the right to own property (including land), the right to equal protection by law, the right to education without discrimination and equal opportunity to employment. In order to ensure these rights, government has realised a number of programmes which have resulted in the following: More women in formal employment Increased number of women Ministers – currently women Ministers make up 25% of the 12 posts in the government Incorporation of the gender dimension in the Human Resource Development Plan 1994-2000 and other policy instruments 12 weeks paid maternity leave under the Employment Act Payment of alimony under the Children’s Act 1982

There are at present a number of non-governmental organisations with a gender focus. These are mainly the Seychelles Womens' Association (SWA), Association of Women Professionals (SAWOP), the Alliance for Solidarity for the Family (ASFF) and the Fathers’ Association. These organisations are primarily involved in education, sensitisation and promotion within their respective fields rather than primarily involved with the delivery of services.

3.2.8. LAND TRANSPORT

One of the areas in the land transport sector where remarkable progress has been achieved is public transport. The provision of public transport services is not regarded exclusively from a commercial point of view. It is seen as an essential service, and high priority has been given to the development of a well knit, reliable and safe service at a reasonable price that responds to social and economic needs of the population. For example, since 1998, elderly people enjoy the privilege of travelling in public transport without having to pay the flat bus fare of RS 3. Created in 1977, the Seychelles Public Transport Cooperation (SPTC) has been the main vehicle for the provision of transport to the general public. Since it came into operation it has developed from serving the main roads to secondary roads and link roads.

3.2.9. PUBLIC UTILITIES

The Public Utilities Corporation is the main supplier of water and electricity. Table 4 indicates the improvements in the accessibility to tap water among households. The proportion of households that have tap water increased from 47% in 1977 to 75% in 1987, and by 1997 it had reached 85%. Subsequently, the proportion of households getting water from public standpipe, river or wells has been on the decrease. It is estimated that a total of 16,488 or 92% of all households had access to electricity in 1997, an increase of 2% since 1994.

Table 4 Households by main source of water supply (%), 1977-97.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Year Number of Tap at Standpipe River, streams Not Total households home or well stated 1977 12,664 47 24 29 - 100 1987 15,118 75 2 20 3 100 1994 17,107 82 2 16 - 100 1997 17,878 85 1 11 3 100 Source: MISD, 1997.

3.10. ENVIRONMENT

Protection and conservation of environmental assets form an integral part of development. This has been recognised by the government through all the National Development Plans. Furthermore, government’s strong commitment towards sustainable environmental protection precedes Agenda 21, adopted at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in 1992. In 1990, through the Environment Management Plan for Seychelles 1990-2000 (EMPS 1990-2000), Government embarked on a number of multiple projects, studies and legislation on environment. Some of the environmental achievements attained in the last decade, mainly due to the EMPS 1990- 2000, are:

Enactment and implementation of environmental legislations Provision for greater protection of sites and habitats with the promulgation of three new protected areas and designation of about 370 areas as “Sensitive Areas”. Improvement in the collection and handling of solid waste. Implementation of the Environmental Impact Assessment process under the Environment Protection Act. Introduction of environmental education at all levels in schools, resulting in important publications and production of materials.

Despite these achievements, the EMPS 1990-2000 had several limitations. For instance, one of its main drawbacks was that it was used largely as a project list and not as a master plan to provide guidance as was originally intended. As a result, many key environmental activities were determined by ad-hoc and reactive actions. The second EMPS, (2000-2010), is a continuation of the EMPS 1990-2000. Building upon past achievements, it provides a coherent framework covering key development variables to address current gaps and weaknesses in environmental protection and conservation.

3.2.11. CULTURE AND SPORTS

The achievements Seychelles has made in the field of culture and sports have also significantly contributed toward the advancement of the people. This cultural dimension has been one of the most important assets for development. In its efforts to promote and preserve the Seychellois culture, government has realised the following key projects: 20

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Introduction of Creole as the third national language Annual celebration of the Creole culture (Festival Kreol) Establishment of the Kreol Institute for the promotion of Creole literature Conservation and promotion of the national heritage (traditional buildings and other cultural assets) Introduction and upgrading of the College of the Arts Construction of a new National Library and Archives

Outstanding among specific sports policies and programmes are: Regionalisation of sports in 1980 to ensure a greater participation of the mass Establishment of the National Council for Sports in 1981 to coordinate and monitor sports development Intensification of physical education in the school curricula since the beginning of the 1980s. The main event to commemorate Independence Day is the Annual Schools Sports Competition. Hosting of the Third Indian Ocean Games in 1993, providing infrastructure for various trainings and competitions. Launching of the National Sports Policy and Strategy in 2000.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

4. THE CHALLENGES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Current social conditions in the Seychelles indicate that the country faces a broad range of common concerns relating to social organisation, the changing mix of critical social problems, and to the inadequacy of social provision. These common concerns are surveyed here with a view to identifying their main features in order to preserve and build on the achievements made so far in the field of social development. While the various social concerns confronting the country are surveyed sequentially in this document, they are closely inter-related and therefore require a comprehensive and co-ordinated multi-sectoral approach.

4.1. SOCIAL ORGANISATION Throughout Seychelles, the family, the community, non-governmental organisations, business enterprises and the State form a network of social institutions supporting the individual’s quest for a higher quality of life. It is essential that those major social institutions be made to function in a complementary and mutually supportive manner as partners in social development.

4.1.1 THE INDIVIDUAL

Social institutions can be structured to play a role in ensuring that social development takes fully into account the value and dignity of the human person and ensures the promotion of human rights. The humanity of their role may be assessed through the extent to which they maintain human dignity and autonomy, provide benefits (beneficence) and do not cause harm (non-maleficence).

To achieve this, an equitable balance needs to be struck between the rights and responsibilities of the individual within society. This involves the development of meaningful and effective means of participation, to permit the individual’s constructive interaction within the society. There is no reason why social institutions should not be made capable of empowering isolated and deprived individuals to assume a responsible and creative role in the development process. The Seychelles Constitution states the fundamental rights of each individual citizen, although it makes little mention of their responsibilities.

What is required is careful reconsideration of individual rights and responsibilities within the rapidly changing social context accompanying development. A start has been made in the revisions of the Children’s Act 1982, which now states parental responsibilities as well as their rights. Similarly, the issue of responsibilities is being addressed within the context of UN Convention of the Rights of the Child; the Maintenance and Family Support Benefits scheme etc. Redefinition of the full range of development policies, plans and programmes to provide full scope to the realisation of those rights and responsibilities, must be continued.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

4.1.2. THE FAMILY

It is commonly stated that the family is the fundamental social institution around which all societies organise themselves. Families are seen to fulfil a number of key functions, including; the provision of basic care and support for children, elderly and disabled members; the partial education and socialisation of children; the provision of moral and spiritual guidance; the provision of emotional support for members through care, love and recreation; and the partial protection of members from other social and economic forces. The National Youth Study revealed the importance of the family in shaping the values, attitudes and behaviours of young people in Seychelles.

However, development processes throughout the world have had a corrosive impact on family structures and functions in recent decades, and Seychelles is no exception in this trend. The neglect of the means whereby this deteriorating situation may be reversed, internationally, reflects a serious misperception of the forces shaping development.

In the context of rapidly changing economic and social circumstances, a number of important challenges currently confront the family. These include;

Increased social and spatial mobility, and with it the erosion of traditional family ties;

An emerging preference for smaller, more flexible family forms;

Rising dependency ratios owing to the rapid ageing of the population

Growing emphasis on individual rather than collective social values; and

Fundamental redefinition of traditional family-member role expectations.

With the rising incidence of divorce, separation, widowhood and unmarried parenthood, single-parent households are also on the rise in the country.

In these circumstances, it is essential that consideration be given to policies and programmes whereby the social provisioning role of the family may be enhanced. It is self-evident that the State cannot serve as a substitute for the family. Government has therefore to consider the means through which it can give effective support to the family, enabling it to continue to carry out its traditional functions, in the face of the corrosive influence of development.

4.1.3. THE COMMUNITY

The concept of community refers to the broad networks of informal social relationships extending beyond the family, but not reaching the level of the State. It has been referred to as an extension of kinship, but implies much more. Critical aspects include residential contiguity, consensus assignment of leadership and authority, collaborative interdependence in production, a sense of social identity and independence from central authority, and a degree of economic and social self-reliance.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 All these characteristics of community can be turned with advantage to the cause of social development.

Like the family, and for many of the same reasons, the structure and functions of the community have been eroded in the process of development. It is evident that further studies must be undertaken to determine which aspects should be conserved to strengthen those forms and functions of the traditional community that remain relevant in the modern Seychelles. The community could, for instance, be mobilised to supplement the family in providing such essential social services as care of the elderly, enabling support for disabled persons, assistance to youth in responding to the requirements of adulthood, defence against crime, and relief in the wake of disasters. The community can also serve as an effective representative of the hopes and aspirations of its constituents, and thus play an important role in the promotion of popular participation. Policies and programmes need to be devised to ensure that the potential contribution of the community to social development is realised.

4.1.4. NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS

Diverse organisations such as community associations, social service agencies, religious community action groups, local voluntary religious bodies and other social groups that seek to serve the public interest without thought of personal gain are generally termed non-government organisations. Their diversity ranges from grass-roots alliances to national organisations charged with the delivery of essential services to disadvantaged and vulnerable social groups, and to international humanitarian agencies devoted to providing comfort and assistance to the most severely affected sections of society. Non-governmental organisations thus serve as a valuable supplement to family and community in meeting social needs.

Religious groups have long had considerable influence on development patterns in the Seychelles. The recent expansion in the number of denominations in Seychelles perhaps reflects the importance of spirituality as an aspect of social life, and represents a force for future social development.

The Government has increasingly recognised the worth of NGOs, and the Liaison Unit for Non Government Organisation of Seychelles (LUNGOS). “ The Government recognises NGOs as partners in the development of our country…. the Government recognises the vital role of LUNGOS….(which) strives to maintain close links and dialogue with the Government….. For its part the Government will continue to step up its efforts to mobilise funds from overseas donors to support NGOs. It will also contribute from its own resources to support NGOs” 2.

In Seychelles, the growth and development of NGOs must be viewed within the framework of the political and socio-economic background of the country, and in relation to the size of the country and its population. Seychelles is distinct from the majority of developing countries in terms of level of development, with a GNP per capita of over US$7,000 and the basic requirements of health, hygiene, education and communications largely met. The small size of the country, and the relative ease of

22 Minister Belmont (Ministry of Manpower and Administration) at the NGO Workshop, Coral Strand Hotel 1996. 24

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 access and communication, have meant that governmental programmes have reached all sectors of the population on a fairly equal basis.

In addition since Seychelles has never experienced many of the problems like grinding poverty, civil war, persecution and others the sphere of NGO activity is primarily at an ‘intermediate’ level, rather than at the basic level of development. But the fundamental mission of NGOs remains the same as anywhere else, i.e. to focus on bettering the socio-economic prospects of community members.

4.1.5. PRIVATE ENTERPRISES

In their ability to function in response to demand, private enterprises can serve as a valuable complement to the State and non-governmental organisations in the delivery of essential social services. The privatisation of State-held productive undertakings can be extended to the provision of an expanded range of social services by the private sector. In particular, the delivery of health care services, education services, housing facilities, social insurance schemes and the like has been enhanced through the active participation of the private sector.

The complementary role of the private sector is important and should be encouraged. However, the government must remain the main actor and provider of social services, particularly health and education. This is necessary to ensure a ‘safety net’ with special provision to ensure that such services are delivered to disadvantaged and vulnerable social groups at affordable prices, and also to provide those service that the private sectors will not, due to lack of economic efficiency and economies of scale.

Private enterprises hold other social responsibilities. In their capacity as employers of much of the country’s labour force, firms can ensure that wage rates, working conditions, skills training opportunities and other aspects of employment are adequate and equitable. In their capacity as producers, they can ensure that consumers are dealt with fairly. The private sector is also required to make a conscientious effort to adapt its production and distribution practices so as to minimise any adverse impact on the environment.

4.1.6. THE STATE

The Government, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of its constituencies, has been strongly influenced by the universal ideals of social progress in recent decades. However, the vast scope and complexity of the social development challenge requires the full and active participation of all sectors of society. While the State, as the intimate representative of the people, must serve as Primus inter pares, and while all other participating social entities must respect that position, it cannot meet the challenge unaided. Thus, the State, in close consultation with the people themselves, must devise means of addressing the challenge through a “partnership for social development” involving all major social sectors in a frontal assault on the country’s critical social issues. The issue of cost-recovery, from individuals and communities, may prove central to the sustainability of programmes. The effective targeting of interventions may also help to improve their efficiency .

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

4.2. SOCIAL ISSUES The broad range of social issues confronting Seychelles form a syndrome of interrelated conditions which may be preventing some people, particularly disadvantaged and vulnerable groups in society, from realising their hopes and aspirations for substantial and sustained improvements in their quality of life. The major issues are surveyed below.

4.2.1. POPULATION

The population size and rate of growth, and its changing age and sex composition, have an important influence on many of the country’s current social development issues, including education, health, manpower planning and development and the environment. These trends must be considered in social development planning. In general, Seychelles is following similar demographic patterns to those experienced by many developed countries. The Government is in the process of formulating a comprehensive national population policy to systematically integrate demographic as well as other related problems into development planning.

4.2.2. HEALTH

In many ways health is a prerequisite for social development and economic growth. In simple terms ‘the healthy development of a child will ensure that she or he is able to grow up, attend school and acquire skills, find gainful employment, achieve personal autonomy and live a fulfilling and productive life within the family and community’ 3. Health is also a powerful means of promoting social integration and solidarity at all levels.

The successes of recent decades, however impressive and welcome they may be, have not resolved the full range of health problems, especially amongst disadvantaged and vulnerable social groups, for example the disabled and mentally challenged. In addition the prevalence of life style related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and cancer is of particular concern. There has also been a rising trend in the use of consciousness-altering substances, including alcohol, which have a particularly adverse impact on social organisation, particularly the family and the community, and a possible relationship with crime, delinquency and family violence.

Emerging health-related issues include the rapid spread and increasing transmission of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV). Whilst the absolute number of HIV cases may not appear alarming in comparison with other countries, the number infected is significant. There is a need to continually promote educational programmes, and dissipate the fears and misconceptions in society that hinder prevention efforts. Although some national activities (World Aids Day, World Population Day, etc.) aim to provide some education, individuals and communities should be encouraged to develop a positive outlook to supporting those who have already contracted the virus.

It is in this respect that the National Policy for the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections was formulated and adopted in the

3 Dr Hiroshi Nakajima, DG WHO, Statement to the World Summit for Social Development, Copenhagen 1995. 26

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 year 2000. Prevention of AIDS requires behavioural changes, which will have to be achieved by both men and women. The Policy views HIV/AIDS as a societal issue, rather than a health problem. Current sexual behaviour must, at the very least, change to accommodate safer sexual practices which encompass protection of the health of women and their children, born and unborn.

4.2.3. EDUCATION

The Seychelles constitution recognises education as a fundamental human right for all citizens to be able to have a fulfilling and comprehensive role in society. Education is the key to ensuring that individuals and communities have the knowledge, attitudes and skills to participate in social development, and the means to support themselves. Seychelles has made considerable progress in extending basic education and literacy to all sections of society. Broad access to education has clearly had its benefits, and has underpinned much of the progress in social development over the years. However, while literacy rates are high, an important issue to be addressed is the remaining gender disparity in access to tertiary education. Disparities between male and female secondary enrolment rates exist, and the number of girls following technical and vocational training remains smaller than for boys.

The need to extend access to secondary education to all Seychellois has resulted in concerns that the quality of education has not been ensured in all cases. Shortages of suitably qualified Seychellois teachers have hampered efforts at localising posts, making it difficult to ensure continuity of staff.

4.2.4. EMPLOYMENT

The Government has more recently re-focused its efforts and resources on the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, providing incentives to the private sector which it is hoped will establish a structure for sustained employment creation. Seychelles is also exploiting the emerging opportunities of the global economy, with an open economic policy geared towards attracting foreign investors. All of these have a profound impact on employment and working conditions. No longer is the labour market capable of absorbing all new workforce entrants, and no longer is it able to accept all job seekers regardless of their skills base.

In 1998, the real unemployment rate was estimated at 2.4% of the total labour force which stood at 40,960 persons for the same period. The characteristics of the national labour market indicate the co-existence of a shortage of skills as well as surplus of unskilled job seekers. In general, job seekers with specific skills or experience are easily absorbed into formal employment or entrepreneurial opportunities whilst on the other hand, unskilled job seekers display reluctance to undertake jobs requiring little or no skills where there is great demand, especially in the manufacturing, construction and tourism sectors. The challenges faced here relate more to changing attitudes of these job seekers rather than job creation. It is therefore recommended that a long-term sustainable solution be found and implemented.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 The need to reduce the marginalisation of unskilled workers in the wake of technological change, and to maintain or strengthen income generation opportunities for individuals and households through the informal sector remains a priority. Alternatives to paid salary/wage employment are also needed, through investments, small and medium scale industries, and self-employment opportunities. There is also a need to create a working environment, which reduces the demand for foreign workers where skills are available or could be cultivated locally. According to statistics produced by the Manpower Planning Section of the Ministry of Economic Planning, in 1998 total expatriate employment stood at 2,381 representing 9% of formal employment or 5.8% of the total labour force. The majority (1860) were employed in the Private Sector mostly within the construction, manufacturing and hotel (tourism) industries.

It is government policy that expatriates are only employed when no qualified Seychellois is available. In his 1997 State of the Nation address, The President noted that “It is timely now for us to take a more serious and global approach in this important matter; and in this respect I urge all government and private sector employers to ensure that when we have to bring in foreign expertise we place Seychellois workers side by side with these people so that one day Seychellois can successfully take over their roles. This implies that when we select people to fill jobs we should ensure that these persons have a capacity not only to do the job but to train Seychellois as well”.

4.2.5. ENVIRONMENT

A sustainable social development strategy must consider environmental issues if it is to have any hope of success. Although economic and social development throughout the Seychelles has proceeded in the last decade with concern for the environmental consequences, there is concern that some social conditions, such as population growth and poverty, abetted by the spread of individualism, materialism and consumerism as basic social values, may have had an adverse impact on the physical environment. The combination of ignorance and carelessness of the consequences of environmentally harmful practices may undermine the people’s long-term social well-being. In the absence of urgent and concerted action, the quality of life of all in the country will be affected permanently.

The Seychelles suffers from few natural disasters. There is however concern over the consequences of man-made disasters and the climatic changes affecting countries worldwide, including the economy and people of Seychelles. Doubts remain as to whether or not the country is well suitably equipped to deal with future disasters. A National Climatic Change Committee has been established to address this specific concern, and inter-sectoral training in emergency preparedness and response techniques have taken place. These efforts should be continued and strengthened.

4.2.6. CRIME

It is commonly reported that crimes against both person and property have increased in the Seychelles in recent decades. Although youth crime and delinquency continue to constitute only a fraction of total criminality in Seychelles, their rapid growth is a matter of special concern. 28

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 The roots of the crime problem as a social development issue in Seychelles need to be examined. Is it the result of the weakening of family and community ties as individualist, materialist and consumerist values penetrate traditional values; the social dislocation and alienation associated with the increasing globalisation of society; the lack of job opportunities commensurate with the training and expectations of many young people? This is an area requiring further research .

4.2.7. SOCIAL SECURITY

The substantive and spiritual security provided by the family, the community and other social institutions at each stage of the life cycle is essential to every individual. However, the erosion of family and community, and the changes in values accompanying technological change, may be introducing new elements of insecurity into the lives of the people. There are many who find it difficult to make ends meet or to save for the future, workers whose jobs are not secured or are unable to find stable employment, and families affected by such social ills like alcohol, drug abuse or AIDS.

Paradoxically, the struggle to escape poverty and to achieve distributive justice and popular participation requires the sacrifice of a degree of social security. Personal security must be introduced and developed in our children and youth, for research has shown that those who feel stable in themselves are better able to join in the fight against social ills like drugs and alcohol.

4.2.8. HOUSING

The expansion of housing and community development projects has improved the quality of life of many Seychellois, but the nature of such projects has also contributed to changes in family and community dynamics. There is also a tension between the land use priorities in different sectors, for example between housing, agriculture, environment and economic development. Housing remains an area in which inter sectoral planning and co-operation should be strengthened.

Certain needy groups also remain. For example, many elderly persons live in poorly accessible areas, as a result of historical housing trends. The special needs of disabled individuals for suitable housing which is integrated in communities should also be met. And there is a continuing demand from young couples and individuals for affordable housing, rather than remaining in parental home.

4.3. SOCIAL PROVISION “Adequacy of social provision” refers to the extent to which a society is successful in mobilising and utilising the resources required to meet its social needs. Fundamental among those needs are the assurance of an adequate level of subsistence, an equitable distribution of resources and the active participation of all sections of society in the development process. In satisfying those needs, a society will have met the objectives of the strategy.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

4.3.1. PRIORITISATION OF NEEDS

The Strategy encompasses a broad range of social issues, each requiring attention. Decisions to improve or redistribute social provision must be based on an accurate assessment of needs, encompassing comparative, expressed, felt, and normative approaches as appropriate. The data, information and capacity to do this effectively are absent in many settings, and must be improved.

4.3.2. THE INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

The pressure upon the State to assume prime responsibility for the provision of both standard and emergency social services has risen steadily as a result of the deterioration of the traditional social-welfare “safety net” provided by the family and the community. Other social institutions, particularly non-governmental organisations, are emerging to supplement the role of the State in this regard, while the private sector is also being invited to play an increasingly active role.

Government interventions have consisted primarily of formal programmes in the areas of education, health care, income security and other conventional means of social provisioning, while non-governmental organisations have complemented the State intervention at the intermediate level by raising public awareness in public education. Inevitably, the range and diversity of social services that both the public and non- governmental sectors are being called on to provide is expanding. However, both government agencies and non-governmental organisations will not be able to fulfil peoples’ expectation. Hence, the importance of mobilising all partners providing support to the traditional institutions of the family and the community as social service delivery mechanisms .

4.3.3. THE SYNDROME OF SOCIAL ISSUES

The preceding section on “social issues” emphasised that the plethora of concerns facing the country does not consist of a bundle of independent problems. Problems relating to education, health, employment, crime, family disintegration and the various other major social issues of concern are the visible manifestations of a system of mutually reinforcing conditions. So far, responses to social issues on a piecemeal basis have provided partial or temporary remedies at best. They require systemic, rather than piecemeal analysis, and a well co-ordinated, multi-sectoral initiative aimed at tackling causes directly .

4.3.4. PLANNING FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

In general, all efforts to address the challenges of social development have so far been reactive rather than proactive. The reactive approach seeks to remedy social problems as they appear, and has been termed the “Band-Aid” approach to social development. By contrast, the proactive approach bases interventionist measures on diagnostic analysis of the underlying dynamics of the development process. It seeks to prevent the emergence of social problems by guiding the course of social development directly towards the realisation of explicitly defined social objectives.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 Planning for social development should take into account the interaction among social development issues and the need, therefore, for a comprehensive, integrated approach to dealing with those issues. Consideration should also be given to the complementary roles of other sectors, particularly non-governmental organisations and business enterprises, as partners of government in meeting the challenge of social development. The opportunities implicit in that integrated approach to social development policy, planning and programming lies at the heart of this Strategy.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

5. STRATEGIC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

5.1. AIMS OF THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FOR SEYCHELLES BEYOND 2000 The Strategy has the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life of all the people of the Seychelles, in keeping with their individual and collective hopes and aspirations, and within the context of their prevailing cultural traditions and practices.

5.2. OBJECTIVES OF THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FOR SEYCHELLES BEYOND 2000 The objectives of the Strategy are:

To alleviate poverty,

To realise distributive justice,

To enhance popular participation, and

To ensure an integrated approach to social development.

5.2.1. OBJECTIVE ONE : THE ALLEVIATION OF POVERTY It is generally agreed that “absolute poverty” as manifested in other countries do not exist in the Seychelles. Poverty may on the other hand be manifested in many ways; as lack of income, lack of productive resources, ill health, poor housing, unsafe environments, social discrimination, social exclusion, lack of participation in decision making, and in civil, social and cultural life. Women (and children) often bear a disproportionate burden of relative poverty.

It was recognised that relative poverty as the result of a “set of social circumstances” rather that simply a lack of financial or material means does exist. Some individuals or groups in the Seychelles are living in social circumstances where they may be only marginally above the poverty line or a minimum level of subsistence. These social circumstances include; breakdown in family relationships (divorce); choosing not to take up employment; proliferation of single parent households; poor family budgeting in terms of incorrect prioritising of family expenditure. The interaction of these factors may create a circle of poverty, which should be specifically addressed if we are to improve social development. ”Spiritual Poverty” - also exists in Seychelles and ought to be recognised and addressed.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Objective One: To alleviate poverty

Output Key Action Outcome Remark Improved targeting of Identify the pockets of poverty Survey and Poverty Action Plan The proposed output and key vulnerable groups. actions reflect the Develop strategies and programmes to Survey and Poverty Action Plan recommendations of the effectively target the pockets of poverty National Conference on identified Social Development, in 1999. In addition to other issues Develop information management systems for Database for monitoring described below, the two targeting identified pockets of poverty poverty areas issues will form the basis for the preparation of a detailed Evaluate existing and new policies and More effective policies and plan of action for the programmes to assess their effectiveness in programmes implementation of the Social meeting the needs identified Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000. Develop a system for monitoring, evaluating Sectoral review meetings for and reporting on all poverty alleviation monitoring and evaluation interventions.

Targeting of resources and social services to Programme for more effective improve the conditions of the poor, targeting of social services marginalised and more vulnerable.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

5.2.2 OBJECTIVE TWO: THE REALISATION OF DISTRIBUTIVE JUSTICE

Disparities in wealth, status and power can stand as barriers to social development, and serve as triggers of social conflict between social groups. The equitable distribution of both the resources and costs of social development, the ‘benefits and burdens’, is central to this strategy. Distributive justice requires an enabling environment, one which supports growth, gives priority to the poor and unemployed, encourages participation, and fosters tolerance and respect for human dignity, rights and the law.

Distribute justice has two dimensions, horizontal and vertical. Horizontal equity implies the equal treatment of equals, and as a concept is well accepted. Vertical equity, implying unequal treatment of unequals, encompasses the provision of special programmes and services for those with special needs, and therefore the allocation of resources to those in greatest need.

Access to and distribution of productive resources such as credit, land, public services, knowledge and information, education and training, and technology remains at the heart of efforts to support distributive justice.

Enforcement of basic human rights, as a second critical aspect of distributive justice, also requires urgent attention, both nationally and globally. Universal basic education, including literacy, is one essential means to this end, providing the necessary awareness, understanding, communication skills and self-confidence through which all citizens may pursue their human rights.

Improved access by all people, especially members of disadvantaged and vulnerable social groups, to the formal justice system in their pursuit of remedies for grievances is a third essential approach.

Objective Two: To realise distributive justice

Output Key Action Outcome Remark Improved gender specific projects and Initiate projects to engender National programme for Refer to previous grid programmes development through proper engendering development describing Objective engendering of budgets projects One.

Improved child and youth friendly Develop programmes to promote Enhanced Youth Development programmes healthy child and youth friendly Plan development

Improved disabled persons’ self- Identify areas for increased Intervention areas for persons reliance and quality of life participation of disabled persons living with disabilities

Improved participation of family and Review social welfare policies and More integrated social community involvement in social programmes in accordance with development policies development the Social Development Framework (Appendix 1)

Improved information, education and Develop IEC programmes to National IEC Programme for communication (IEC) on health and directly address employment- social development related issues targeting vulnerable related issues groups of men, women, youths, especially persons living with HIV/AIDS and cancer

An education system that responds Develop closer links between Increased partnership between more closely to society’s needs Education and Industry. educational and industrial

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

institutions through a memorandum of understanding

Developing a comprehensive Employment Review the Employment Policy to Amended Employment Policy Policy that takes into consideration effectively enshrine the taking into account “decent work” “decent work”* as a primary recommendations of “decent as recommended by ILO. engagement. work”.

*The primary goal of ILO today is to promote opportunities for women and men to obtain decent produce work in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. Decent work is the converging focus of all its four strategic objectives: the promotion of rights at work, employment, social protections, and social dialogue (ILO, 1999, p.3)

36 5.2.3. Objective Three: The Enhancement of Popular Participation

Popular participation refers to the full and active contribution of all people to development. It refers to people’s opportunities, acting individually, as family and community members, and as citizens, to express their views, develop and utilise their skills, practise self-reliance, and exercise leadership in advancing their own development. In particular, it focuses on people’s participation in the decision-making processes that affect their future, including social development policy-making, planning and programming. The active and full participation of the people themselves in contributing to the management and execution of development is thus the third objective of this Strategy. A constructive partnership among all sections of society is required if the people themselves are to play an active role in all aspects of development.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Objective Three: To enhance popular participation

Output Key Action Outcome Remarks

1. Development of stronger families Examine the roles of all Clea rly defined roles and Refer to previous grid describing through public education programmes organisations involved in family- responsibilities of all stakeholders Objective One. and other supports, related issues through the National IEC programme for social development

The Family Institute, as well as Capacity-building programmes related institutions, to increase its capacity to act as a national resource on family matters

2. Stronger and active partnership with Intensify the involvement of all Reinforced networking through the civil societies (NGOs, churches civil societies in social clearly defined responsibilities for etc.) and the private sector development issues all stakeholders/partners

Provide support to advocacy and Networking and memorandum of IEC programmes initiated by the understanding with civil societies civil societies and the private sector

Develop a framework for As above partnership with civil societies

and the private sector

3. Individuals better informed to Develop mechanisms for Empowerment of all social groups participate more effectively effective individual participation

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

5.2.4. OBJECTIVE FOUR: AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Action to achieve the aims and objectives set out in the Strategy requires a comprehensive and sustained nation-wide initiative. The government will undertake a firm commitment, in close co- operation with its partners in development, namely: churches, private sector and non- governmental organisations, to undertake a vigorous multi-sectoral programme to accelerate the course of social development along lines beneficial to all the people, giving particular attention to the needs of disadvantaged and vulnerable sections of society. Specific policies, plans and programmes comprising an integrated, forward-looking approach to social development will be devised - an approach that responds directly to the root causes of the country’s syndrome of social issues.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Objective Four: To ensure an integrated approach to social development

Output Key Action Outcome Remark

1) Ensuring that all concerned Establish a Social Development Fully operationalised SDD The outputs and key actions for Ministries and other government Division (SDD) to spearhead the Objective Four form an integral agencies synchronise their social implementation of the Strategy part of the actual Strategy. development policy-making, planning and The key action relating to the programming (intra-governmental co- first output is currently being ordination) implemented. The other outputs

and key actions will be tackled 2) Formulation and implementation of a Identify and appoint a focal person in Identified focal persons in each in the preparation of the National Plan of Action for Social each sector sector NPASD. Development (inter-sectoral coordination) Formulate the National Plan of Action Approved and operational for Social Development (NPSAD), NPASD which would include the sectoral priorities and identified partners and their role in the implementation of the Strategy

3) Stronger partnerships to achieve Undertake sectoral review of current Sectoral review committee the goals of social development policy and programme in social formed to review policy and development programme

4) Increased capacity at personnel and Establish an inter-ministerial Committee established and institutional levels for sustainable committee to oversee all social meeting regularly development development issues 40

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

5) Greater advocacy on social Establish sectoral councils Sectoral councils established development and related issues, and meeting regularly

6) Information and research on social Undertake research on social and Research findings on social and issues and related areas related issues. related issues

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

6. IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK

The implementation of the Strategy will necessitate a detailed plan of action, a co- ordinating mechanism and a main policy-decision body. Upon approval of the Strategy, each sector will use the identified strategies described in the previous section, as well as other relevant ones, to develop and prioritise activities into a sectoral plan of action. This will be done through the co-ordination and supervision of the new Social Development Division and the National Inter-ministerial Committee (NIC) respectively (see Figure One). These sectoral plans of action will form the National Plan of Action for Social Development (NPASD) for the Seychelles beyond the year 2000, and will be submitted to the (NIC) for approval.

The Social Development Division will, furthermore, be responsible for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of progress achieved, through the NPASD, towards the realisation of the aims and objectives of the Strategy. In that capacity, the Division will seek to ensure that all concerned stakeholders play a constructive and complementary role, in keeping with their assigned responsibilities, under the NPASD.

An outline of the schedule for the implementation of the Strategy is shown in Table 5. The NPASD will be subject to revision every two years. This will imply the necessary modification of strategies, updating of activities and subsequent change in time frame and responsible agencies.

The effectiveness of the implementation of the Strategy would depend on the timeliness of information on the relevant indicators from each respective sector. It is therefore expected that institutional links will be established and strengthened with all research and information units of all government departments and NGOs.

Mechanisms will be established for the dissemination of information on social development at all levels. The dissemination programme will consist of publication of periodic reports and other materials and the organisation of workshops, conferences and other such consultations. The result of the dissemination programme will help policy makers to respond timely and adequately to social development issues.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Figure One: Implementation Coordination Framework

Presiden t

National Inter-Ministerial Committee (Existing)

National Education Council: Minister MOE- Chair

National Sectoral focal person Other Health SD officer, MSAE Council Councils LUNGOS focal person Chamber of commerce focal person

Religious representative

Youth council focal person

Social Development Division, MSAE

Develop a national social development approach to make development more equitable, accountable and appropriate

Review the involvement and impact of all stakeholders in social development

Monitor and evaluate implementation of Social Development Strategy and Plan of Action

Provide advice on social policy and social protection

Review development policies and strategies down to sectoral levels re social development

Propose recommendations to update and adjust policies, strategies and programmes as may

be necessary

Propose how Seychelles can adapt to globalisation while safeguarding its social, cultural, and environmental heritage

Examine issues of inequity and inequality and make proposals for appropriate intervention.

Examine Seychelles’ population trends and their implications for development

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Table 5 Implementation Schedule

Activity Action by Time frame

1. Final adoption of Social Development Council of Ministers July, 2002 Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000 2. Initiate implementation of the Stra tegy MSAE Jan 2001 through establishment of new Social Development Division 3. Identify social development focal points in All sectors October all sectors 2002 4. Conduct workshops/meeting in all sectors MSAE focal point October to raise awareness of the Strategy 2002 5. Sectoral review of policies using All sectors Jan, 2003 framework at Appendix 1 6. Identify national targets and indicators MSAE focal point Jan 2003 for implementation National Councils 7. Develop sectoral plans of action Sectoral focal March -June points 2003 8. Identify national and international social MSAE focal point August, 2003 development partners

9. Submit sectoral plans of action to national MSAE focal point August, 2003 co-ordinating body for review and Sectoral focal approval, and compile into a national plan points National of action Councils 10.Disseminate National Action Plan for MSAE focal point October Social Development 2003 11.Implement agreed national plan of action All sectors Jan, 2004

12.Establish national councils Council of Ministers Jan, 2004

13.Develop monitoring and evaluation process All sectors As of Feb 2004 14.Feedback results to co -ordinating body All sectors Quarterly and by Jan 2005 15.Prepare national reports on an annual basis MSAE foca l point February 2005

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

7. SELECTED REFERENCES

Benedict, B. (1970) Overseas Research Publication No 14 People of Seychelles Her Majesty’s stationary office.

Colony of Seychelles (1963) Seychelles 1961-1962.

Colony of Seychelles (1965) Seychelles 1963-1964.

Colony of Seychelles (1968) Seychelles 1965-1966.

D’Espaignet, E.T. (1983) Health in Seychelles: A study in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Victoria, Seychelles.

International Labour Office (1999) Decent Work. Report of Director General.

Government of Seychelles (1976) Seminar lo Population et Bien- etre la famille, Seychelles 18-21 Fevrier 1976.

Hardaker J.B. (1966) Report on the Economics of Commercial Plantation Agriculture in Seychelles 1965.

Management of Information and Systems Division (MISD) (1987) 1987 Census Report and Data.

Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs (MESA) (1995) National Programme of Action for Children in Seychelles.

MESA (1993) National Report on the Interrelationships between Population and Development.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1996) Public Sector Investment Programme.

Ministry of Labour, Health and Welfare (1978) Report of National Conference on Employment, Manpower, Incomes and Production (29-30 May, 1978).

MISD (1994) National Population and Housing Census for 1994.

MISD (1997) National Population and Housing Census for 1997.

Nakajima, D. (1995) Statement to the World Summit for Social Development .Copenhagen.

National Non-Governmental Organisations ( NGOs) Workshop. Creating and Enabling Environment for NGOs. 17-18 November, 1996. Organised jointly by Liaison Unit for NGOs of Seychelles ( LUNGOS ) and Commonwealth.

Overseas Development Administration Economic Mission (1969) The Development of the Seychelles Economy. Victoria, Seychelles.

Republic of Seychelles (1979) National Development Plan (NDP) (1979-83).

Republic of Seychelles (1980) Seychelles Economic Memorandum. A World Bank Country Study.

Republic of Seychelles (1985) National Development Plan 1985-89.

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Republic of Seychelles (1994) Human Resource Development Plan (HRDP).

Republic of Seychelles (1999) Adolescent Reproductive Health in Seychelles 2000-02 Victoria Seychelles.

Republic of Seychelles (1978) National Development Plan 1978-82.

Republic of Seychelles (1978) 1977 Census Report.

Statistics Division (1971) Population Census for 1971.

United Nations (1995) The Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action . New York.

Walter, J. (1973) Repeat of visit to the Seychelles to review and evaluate present policy, organisation and content in the field of adult education 6 th January- 10 th March 1973.

Webb, A.W.T. (1960) Population Census for 1960. Victoria, Seychelles.

World Bank (1994) Poverty in Paradise.

APPENDIX ONE: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK FOR THE REVIEW OF SECTORAL POLICY AND STRATEGY

8.1. Recognition of social development as a key issue Is there a clear vision statement and does it "place man at the centre of development"? In the mission statement, is social development presented as a goal to be pursued by the sector. In the definition of the objectives of the sector, is social development explicitly stated? Is there recognition that the pursuit of the sector’s objectives will have direct and indirect positive impact on social development? How is this to be enhanced? Is there recognition that the pursuit of any of the sector’s objectives might have a negative impact on social development? If so, is due attention given to how such impact might be minimised/mitigated? Are the protection and promotion of people's welfare acknowledged as necessary conditions for the effective pursuit of the sectors main objectives? Are parameters or indicators that will measure social development presented? 8.2. Recognition of stake-holders, partners, and actors Are the various actors, concerned groups, and stakeholders clearly identified? Who are they? Is there a clear recognition of their interests and inputs into the sector’s policies and strategies? What mechanisms are in place or to be promoted to ensure that the interests of different concerned groups are considered? Is emphasis placed on the interest of any particular group? Are there clear explanations and indications that such an outlook will enhance social development? Is the possibility of conflicting perceptions or interests of different groups (e.g. entrepreneurs and workers, producers and consumers) recognised? Are there indications how these might be resolved/reconciled? 8.3. Participation of the people Is participation by the people recognised as a component of the sector's objectives and activities? How is this addressed and promoted? How does the sector seek to empower people so that they make meaningful contributions at all relevant stages of the development and implementation of the sector’s policy, strategy and programmes? Is responsibility on the part of workers recognised as important? In what ways is it promoted? 8.4. Gender issues Is the sector's policy sensitive to gender issues? How are these presented and addressed? Is the participation of women appropriately recognised and promoted? Are particular needs related to gender (e.g. pregnancy) recognised and catered for? 8.5. Cultural issues

Social Development Strategy for Seychelles Beyond 2000

Is the sector sensitive to cultural issues in its objectives and operations? Does it take into account cultural values and norms? What are the cultural impacts (on attitudes, behaviour, family and community life) of the introduction of new technology and processes? If technology and processes are introduced or expanded, what measures are needed to enable workers and consumers to maximise the benefits and/or minimise the problems that may be created? What cultural changes, positive and negative, will be brought about through the pursuit of the sector's objectives? 8.6. Equity, poverty, solidarity Is equity explicitly recognised as an issue? Does the sector seek to promote a fairer distribution of benefits and burdens? Is there recognition that the pursuit of the sectors objectives might have a negative impact on equity, either in perpetuating existing inequity or increasing inequity? What opportunities and threats are there for employment? To whom will such opportunities be accessible, and who will be most vulnerable to the threats? What mechanisms are in place or to be developed that will ensure equitable access to services, information, technology, credit facilities, etc.? Is poverty noted as an issue? Is poverty defined/measured? Is there an explicit commitment to poverty prevention and alleviation? What mechanisms are in place or to be implemented to this effect? Is the notion of solidarity promoted? Is the strengthening of social integration promoted? What vulnerable/disadvantaged groups are identified? In what ways are their particular needs to be addressed?

8.7 Environment and health Is there a clear concern for the environment? What impacts, positive and negative, might there be on the environment? How are these issues addressed? Where is responsibility for the environment placed?