SADC GENDER PROTOCOL BAROMETER BASELINE STUDY
SEYCHELLES
Women in textile industry Seychelles Photo: Loga Virasawmy B.Unusual Seychelles - By Loga (2)
SUBMITTED BY: DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH AND CONSULTANCY SEYCHELLES
JULY 2009 TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF ACRONYMS ______3 LIST of TABLES ______4 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ______5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ______7 SADC Gender Protocol Score Card for Seychelles ______9 COUNTRY CONTEXT______16 CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL RIGHTS Article 4-11 ______20 Discriminatory legislation ______23 Access to justice ______24 Marriage and family laws; widows and widowers; the girl and boy child __ 25 GOVERNANCE Article12-13 ______28 Gender and political parties ______28 Gender in electoral processes______30 Gender and voters______31 Election outcomes______31 Cabinet ______33 The public service ______33 Participation ______34 EDUCATION AND TRAINING (Article 14) ______35 Enrolment and retention ______36 Performance ______39 Challenging stereotypes ______Error! Bookmark not defined. Gender violence in schools ______44 PRODUCTIVE RESOURCES AND EMPLOYMENT, ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Article 15–19 ______45 Women and men in economic decision-making ______46 Gender budgeting ______47 Time use ______48 Economic empowerment ______48 Trade and entrepreneurship ______48 Informal trade ______48
2 Procurement ______49 Property and resources______50 Gender and land ownership______50 Employment ______50 Skills development policies and programmes ______53 Financial Institutions______53 GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE Article 20-25 ______54 Extent of Gender-based violence ______54 Response and support ______54 Prevention ______61 Integrated approaches ______61 Budgetary allocations ______62 HEALTH, HIV AND AIDS Article 26-27 ______63 General ______64 Family Planning / contraceptive usage______64 HIV and AIDS Article 27 ______66 General ______66 Prevention ______67 PMTCT ______67 Treatment______68 IMPLEMENTATION Article 32 -36______69 Signing______72 Ratification ______72 CONCLUSIONS______73 ANNEX A: LIST OF DOCUMENTS ACCESSED AND SUBMITTED ______74 ANNEX B: LIST OF INTERVIEWS ______75 References ______77
LIST OF ACRONYMS
ANC Anti Natal Clinic
3 ARH Adolescent Reproductive Health ARV Anti-Retroviral AU African Union CEO Chief Executive Officer CPR Contraceptive Prevalence Rate DBS Development Bank of Seychelles DIFD Department for International Development DP Democratic Party DPA Department of Public Administration EMB Election Management body EU European Union FGM Female Genital Mutilation FPTP First Past the Post GAT Gender Action Team GBV Gender-based violence HIV/AIDS Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome KAP Knowledge, Attitude and Practice MISD Management & Information Systems Division MoHSD Ministry of Health and Social Development MTC Maritime Training Centre NIE National Institute of Education NIHSS National Institute of Health Social Studies NSB National Statistics Bureau PMTC Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission PR Proportionate Representation PSE Personal and Social Education SACMEQ Southern and Eastern Africa Consortium for Monitoring Educational Quality SADC Southern African Development Community SAHTC Seychelles Agricultural and Horticultural Training Centre SALS School of A level Studies SAWOP Seychelles Association of Women Professional SEnPA Small Enterprise Promotion Agency SIT Seychelles Institute of Technology SNP Seychelles National Party SPPF Seychelles People’s Progressive Party STDs Sexually Transmitted Diseases STIs Sexually Transmitted Infections ToP Termination of Pregnancy UNDP United Nations Development Programme
LIST of TABLES
Table one: SADC Gender Protocol Score Card for Seychelles
4 Table two: Analysis of gender equality clauses in the Constitution Table three: Remaining discriminatory legislation Table four: Access to justice Table five: Marriage and family laws; the boy and girl child Table six: Representation of women and men in key party structures Table seven: Gender in political party manifestos Table eight: Women and men registered to vote Table nine: Candidates fielded at national level Table ten: Candidates fielded at local level Table 11: Election results national Table 12: Election results local Table 13: Women and men in cabinet Table 14: Women and men in the public service Table 15: Enhancing participation by women in public life Table 16: Access and enrolment in education sector / specify the year Table 17: Pass rates Table 18: Gender disaggregated data on school administration Table 19: Women and men in university faculties Table 20: Women and men in economic decision-making Table 21: Private sector and parastatal leadership Table 22: Women ownership of different land types Table 23: Women and men in employment Table 24: Employment levels of women and men across key occupations Table 25: Conditions of employment Table 26: Gender violence statistics Table 27: GBV response and support Table 28: Key sexual, reproductive and health indicators Table 29: Key Gender, HIV and AIDS indicators Table 30: National gender machinery and processes
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
5 This report is part of a regional baseline study for the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development being conducted by the Southern African Gender Protocol Alliance. The report was prepared by Michel Rosalie of Development Research and Consultancy Seychelles with assistance from Daniel Séraphine, Albert Duncan, Sébastien Pillay, Sarah Romain and Janick Brû-Rosalie. Gender Links, which coordinates the work of the Alliance, edited the final report. The baseline study and report have been funded by the Department for International Development (DFID) of the UK government.
SADC Summit Alliance Meeting Speaker Photo: Gender Links SADC Summit6 Alliance Meeting Speaker 2
6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In August 2008, Heads of State of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) signed a Protocol on Gender and Development with 28 targets for achieving gender equality by 2015. Seychelles is signatory to the Protocol.
The purpose of this research commissioned by the Southern African Gender Protocol Alliance (of Gender Links) was to collect baseline data across the articles included in the SADC Protocol - relating to Constitutional and Legal Rights, Governance (Representation and Participation), Education and Training, Productive Resources and Employment, Economic Empowerment, Gender-based violence, Health, HIV and AIDS and Implementation - in order to compile the first SADC Gender Protocol Barometer which will be launched at the August 2009 Heads of State Summit.
The field work for this research was carried out during June 2009. This involved collecting and analysing secondary data (both quantitative and qualitative) on the social, economic and political spheres in the country. Interviews with strategic stakeholders from State and non-state organisations were held to substantiate the documentary analysis.
The findings of the research show that there is no formal discrimination against women in the public sphere in Seychelles. The laws that exist, including the Constitution, ensure that males and females receive the same treatment in all spheres of public life. There is one known exception to this and it concerns the age of consent to sex and the age of marriage. Work has already been done in terms of the harmonization of laws and the recommendations of that exercise (which include reviewing the law in order to have the same age of consent and of marriage for both boys and girls), should be implemented.
Women’s participation in decision-making compares favourably with many other countries in the region but the fact that the situation has not evolved much over the years is a cause for concern. The average percentage of women in decision-making positions in the mid-90s is very similar to current figures (2009). Moreover, the country has not seen fit to establish quotas because it is generally strongly believed that there is no gender-based discrimination in workplaces in Seychelles and therefore that the appointment of individuals for decision-making positions is devoid of any gender bias. The establishment of a quota system for areas where women are underrepresented is recommended to ensure parity.
Education is available to both sexes equally and there are 11 years of compulsory schooling. The Seychelles has an enrolment rate and a primary school completion rate of nearly 100% for both girls and boys. Teachers, curriculum developers and management staff of the Ministry have attended gender-sensitization programmes and locally produced teaching materials have been screened for negative gender stereotypes. Enrolment in various post-secondary schools still show a somewhat uneven distribution of students based on gender but this is gradually changing, albeit very slowly. Education is an area where boys lag behind. A few studies have already been conducted and pilot approaches are currently being implemented to create school
7 environments that are equally accessible to both boys and girls. It is necessary to ensure that the gains made in this area are not lost therefore it is recommended that a formal mechanism is maintained to continue to promote gender in education.
There are no restrictions on women regarding the ownership of property and the access to credit. Many small businesses, especially cottage industries, are operated by women. Despite the fact that a few women sit on national committees in the economic sector, the sector is generally dominated by men. Establishing quotas might be a useful way to ensure that more women participate in decision-making in the economic sector.
The Seychelles has recently launched a Domestic Violence Strategy (2008). While this is not a strategy to deal exclusively with GBV, it is based on the fact that much of the domestic violence that occurs in the country is actually gender-based. A customer friendly family support centre, staffed by professionals is needed to offer preventive services as well as act as a referral path for victims of domestic violence (including GBV). Such a centre could also have a research role. The judiciary system is currently under review and there are programmes that have been designed for the Police - it is hoped that both of these efforts will make it possible to take legal action against perpetrators of GBV.
Free healthcare is provided to the whole population regardless of age or sex but research findings show that Seychellois women are better at taking advantage of health services and this is also true in the area of HIV/AIDS. It is recommended that steps be taken, as soon as possible, to establish a men’s health clinic within health services.
The work of GEMPlus with journalists from the audio-visual and written media has made a difference in terms of equal media coverage of economic and professional roles of women in reporting. Programming on TV, on the other hand, would greatly benefit from having a gender perspective included in the criteria used when choosing what to air.
Women Seychelles
Photo: Gender Links
seychelles women
8 Table 1: SADC Gender Protocol Score Card for Seychelles SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT ARTICLES 4 - 11: CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL RIGHTS Endeavour to enshrine gender equality and equity 8 Formal discrimination against women in the public sphere is no longer in their Constitutions and ensure that these are prevalent in Seychelles as a result of legislative safeguards. The 1993 not compromised by any provisions, laws or Seychelles Constitution of the third Republic (hereafter referred to as practices. the Constitution) guarantees the right to equal protection before the law for every person without discrimination on any ground (Gender Secretariat, 2007). The Constitution has been amended to remove most gender discriminatory language and in general is assumed to be gender neutral, making no distinction between the sexes. Nonetheless specific mention to women is made in particular areas, such as the affirmation on the right of working mothers - “The state recognises the unique status and natural maternal functions of women in society and undertakes as a result to take appropriate measures to ensure that a working mother is afforded special protection with regard to paid leave and her conditions at work during such reasonable period as provided by the law before and after childbirth” (Gender Secretariat, 2007). Review, amend and or repeal all discriminatory 6 Discriminatory laws are minimal however the key weakness lies in the laws. harmonization of laws. Abolish the minority status of women. 8 Women do not have minority status in Seychelles. ARTICLES 12-13 : GOVERNANCE (REPRESENTATION AND PARTICIPATION) Endeavour to ensure that 50 percent of decision- 9 Seychelles women’s participation in decision-making processes at the making positions in all public and private sectors political and administrative levels compares favourably with that of are held by women including through the use of other countries in the region. For example women comprise: 30% of affirmative action measures. Cabinet of Ministers; 38% of all Principal Secretaries; 27% of Parliament; 56% of all District Administrators; 55% of all Directorship posts in the public sector; 36% of all Legislators and Senior Officials; and hold the only Mayor post in Seychelles (Gender Secretariat, 2007). Attempts to further encourage and support women’s participation in politics and decision-making has been championed by SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT the Action Group of Women Parliamentarians, which was formed in 2000, with membership consisting of past and present female parliamentarians. The aim of the association is for its members to become role models and mentors for young women aspiring to become involved in politics and decision-making. The Action Group has since become a member of the Seychelles Women’s Commission, under the umbrella of Liaison Unit for Non-Governmental Organisations Seychelles (LUNGOS). However, Information is lacking to establish the specific achievements made by the actions group so far. Data for the private sector is also not available. ARTICLE 14: EDUCATION AND TRAINING Enact laws that promote equal access to and 8 Appropriate laws are already in place. Equality in access to education retention in primary, secondary, tertiary, for girls has to a large extent been achieved and is not a problem in vocational and non-formal education in Seychelles. The Government has had a policy of “education for all” accordance with the Protocol on Education and without any discrimination since the creation of the SPPF Government Training and the Millennium Development Goals. in 1977. This has ensured that both girls and boys aged from 3+ to 15+ years have had access to free and compulsory primary and secondary education, with almost 100% enrolment rates, almost equal enrolment ratios between girls and boys (Gender Secretariat, 2007). Adopt and implement gender sensitive educational 7 The Ministry of Education is one of the leading organizations in policies and programmes addressing gender gender mainstreaming and was the first ministry to set up a gender stereotypes in education and gender-based focal point in 1996 and appoint a Gender in Education Committee. In violence, amongst others. 1996, Directors and Heads of Units in Education followed a course in Gender Planning and Management, aimed at building capacity to integrate gender into planning processes. This has had some positive results, resulting in recent policy documents being gender responsive. National Examination results and education statistics are now more systematically gender disaggregated so that the progress of both genders in education can be monitored and all disparities highlighted. Gender has been successfully integrated into the new Ministry of
10 SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT Educations Strategic Plan (ESP), initial teacher training programmes and major projects such as the school improvement programmes. The new PSE Programme, which is compulsory for all students, discusses family responsibilities and relationships in gender sensitive ways that are not limited by traditional gender roles and tasks. Accurate information on growth and development as normal processes for both boys and girls is given to students, and gender sensitive career education and counselling are being introduced from very early ages. This will contribute to attitudinal changes over time and help boys and girls develop new and stronger relationships based on respect and equality for both genders (Social Development Division, 2003). ARTICLES 15-19: PRODUCTIVE RESOURCES AND EMPLOYMENT, ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Ensure equal participation by women and men in 5 Women are usually represented at various levels of policy policy formulation and implementation of formulation, at the executive level, in the policy departments and in economic policies. validation workshops. There are no formal mechanisms for ensuring that ‘equal participation’ takes place. Conduct time use studies and adopt policy 2 None of this has been done or discussed formally. measures to ease the burden of the multiple roles played by women. Adopt policies and enact laws which ensure equal 5 Given that gender is not really regarded as a problematic issue in access, benefits and opportunities for women and Seychelles with regards to access to existing opportunities and the men in trade and entrepreneurship, taking into fact that both women and men benefit from schemes that exist, account the contribution of women in the formal policies are generally not gender specific. and informal sectors. Review national trade and entrepreneurship 2 No national trade policy implemented to date. policies, to make them gender responsive. With regard to the affirmative action provisions of 2 There is generally no affirmative action in Seychelles. Article 5, introduce measures to ensure that women benefit equally from economic opportunities, including those created through
11 SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT public procurement processes. Review all policies and laws that determine access 5 There has not been a perceived need to do so. to, control of, and benefit from, productive resources by women. Review, amend and enact laws and policies that 8 Women and men already have equal access to wage employment in ensure women and men have equal access to all sectors of the economy, guaranteed by the Constitution and wage employment in all sectors of the economy. Employment Act. ARTICLES 20-25: GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE Enact and enforce legislation prohibiting all forms 7 A comprehensive National Strategy on Domestic Violence spanning of gender-based violence. from 2008 – 2012 is in place. One specific objective is to ‘strengthen legislation and legislative structures on domestic violence, to deal more effectively with perpetrators and provide more comprehensive protection to victims and their families.’ Ensure that laws on gender-based violence 7 Physical testing and treatment is already provided by the medical provide for the comprehensive testing, treatment services. and care of survivors of sexual assault. Review and reform their criminal laws and 5 The National Strategy on Gender Violence demands a review of all procedures applicable to cases of sexual offences laws covering domestic violence. With regards to sexual offenders no and gender-based violence. provision or need has been expressed to review laws or procedures. (Gender Secretariat, 2008). Enact and adopt specific legislative provisions to 2 Not applicable. No cases of human trafficking ever recorded. prevent human trafficking and provide holistic services to the victims, with the aim of re- integrating them into society. Enact legislative provisions, and adopt and 5 This is provided for by the Penal Code; but problems arise when it implement policies, strategies and programmes comes to proving harassment. which define and prohibit sexual harassment in all spheres, and provide deterrent sanctions for perpetrators of sexual harassment. Adopt integrated approaches, including 3 Although no specific target has been set, various mechanisms are on institutional cross sector structures, with the aim the agenda to develop more integrated approaches. However, a
12 SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT of reducing current levels of gender-based situational analysis of the institutional response to domestic violence violence by half by 2015. has highlighted many weaknesses in current procedures. ARTICLE 26: HEALTH Adopt and implement legislative frameworks, 7 Free healthcare is provided by the Government to all its citizens. Free policies, programmes and services to enhance contraceptives including female condoms are available free of charge gender sensitive, appropriate and affordable at all hospitals and district health clinics. HIV surveillance activities’ quality health care. including the provision of free Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services is available to all pregnant women. However, recent sector level gender analysis has also highlighted the problem of male marginalisation from health services. The dominance of female health staff was identified as one of the factors inhibiting men to seek medical advice and help, especially for sexually related health problems. It was also pointed out that many people are reluctant to go for HIV/AIDS testing at the Communicable Diseases Control Unit (CDCU) because of the stigma attached to the disease and the problem of confidentiality due to the small size of the country. This was identified as being a more significant problem for men; as women are more readily exposed to testing at several points in their life, e.g. antenatal clinic and Family Planning services. The Ministry of Health strategy of 2005 included a section on ‘Men as a Vulnerable Group’ which recommended the setting up of male health services. Following a Gender Analysis Workshop in October 2006 hosted by the Gender Secretariat, there were also strong recommendations made supporting the provision of male targeted health services. Reduce the maternal mortality ratio by 75%. 8 Maternal mortality is already extremely low, in 2008 the ratio was 64.68 - with only one recorded maternal death. The previous year no maternal deaths were recorded. Develop and implement policies and programmes 6 Health services already fully cover the mental and sexual health to address the mental, sexual and refractive health needs of women. With regard to reproductive health, there is needs of women and men. currently a reproductive health policy being finalised. A national information, education and communication strategy for adolescent
13 SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT reproductive health was prepared in 2002. Ensure the provision of hygiene and sanitary 8 This area is not problematic in Seychelles, including women in prison facilities and nutritional needs of women, including - a new prison wing for women was opened in 2008, and hygiene women in prison. and sanitary facilities fully meet international requirements. The number of women inmates is very low. ARTICLE 27: HIV AND AIDS Develop gender sensitive strategies to prevent 5 Gender sensitive strategies are in place in the original National Policy new infections. for the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and STI. Two of the eleven policy objectives are gender specific, aiming to increase the capacity of women, as a vulnerable group, to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS and STIs and to promote stable relationships and family values conducive to the control of these diseases. Another example is that since the year 2000, pregnant women have had access to free antiretroviral therapy for the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS. A new up-to-date policy is in the process of being drafted which should reflect today’s situation and challenges. Ensure universal access to HIV and AIDS 8 HIV and AIDS treatment is equally accessible for men and women treatment for infected women, men, boys and and is subsidized by the Government. girls. Develop and implement policies and programmes 5 This is not a straightforward issue. There are no overt measures to to ensure the appropriate recognition of the work sustain this but the Home Care Programme financially supports carried out by care givers, the majority of whom family members who have to take care of disabled children or elderly are women; the allocation of resources and or sick relatives. The ill are assisted, when appropriate, by health psychological support for care-givers as well as personnel who visit on a regular basis. promote the involvement of men in the care and support of People Living with Aids. ARTICLE 28: PEACE BUILDING AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION Put in place measures to ensure that women have 5 This commitment is not applicable to Seychelles, as the country has equal representation and participation in key not had any conflicts. decision-making positions in conflict resolution and
14 SPECIFIC TARGETS TO BE ACHIEVED BY 2015 SCORE/10 COMMENT peace building processes, in accordance with UN Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. ARTICLES 29 - 31: MEDIA, INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION Take measures to promote the equal 2 Main focus of effort by local organization GEMPlus has been on equal representation of women in ownership of, and media coverage of the economic and professional roles of women. decision-making structures of the media, in Equal representation of women in decision-making positions by 2015 accordance with Article 12.1 that provides for has not been addressed or highlighted as an issue. equal representation of women in decision-making positions by 2015.
TOTAL = 158 / 280 x 100 = 56 %
15 COUNRY CONTEXT
The Seychelles is an archipelago of about 100 islands in the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar. The total land area is 455 sq. km. The Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is more than 1.3 million square kilometres. The main inhabited islands are Mahé (55 sq mi; 142 sq km), Praslin (15 sq mi; 38 sq km), and La Digue (4 sq mi; 10 sq km).
Key Demographic Indicators for Seychelles 1971 1977 1987 1994 1997 2002 2008 Population 52,896 61,898 68,598 74,331 75,876 81,177 86,956 Annual Growth Rate (%) 2.2 2.6 1.0 1.1 0.7 1.3 2.0 Total Fertility Rate (number 6.0 4.0 3.1 2.6 2.2 2.0 2.2 of children per woman) Expectation of life at birth 64.9 67.9 70.1 71.6 71.6 71.0 73.3 Males 61.8 64.6 66.2 67.2 66.0 66.6 68.9 Females 67.9 71.1 73.5 72.9 77.2 75.8 77.7 Sex Ratio (per 100 females) 99.4 101.4 99.0 99.8 98.2 100.8 107.3 Age Distribution (%) 0-14 43.6 39.7 33.7 30.5 28.7 25.7 22.7 15-63 50.1 53.8 59.2 62.2 63.4 66.3 69.0 64 and over 6.3 6.4 7.1 7.3 7.6 7.7 8.3 Source: Social Development Division, 2003 and National Statistics Bureau, 2009
There are 25 districts in the country. The demographic data available for recent years does not provide population figures for the regions disaggregated by gender but the 2002 Census data does, therefore the 2002 information has been used for the table below.
Population by administrative divisions by sex, 2002 Administrative Area in Population Male Female Total Division/Region km2 Density Central Bel Air 1360 1559 2919 4.41372 661 English River 1911 1701 3612 1.38069 2616 Les Mamelles 1205 1186 2391 1.67536 1427 Mont Buxton 1522 1588 3110 1.18731 2619 Mont Fleuri 1566 2032 3598 1.7872 2013 Plaisance 1778 1636 3414 3.37392 1012 Roche Caiman 1421 1252 2673 0.942352 2837 St Louis 1671 1606 3277 1.42017 2307 East Anse Aux Pins 1822 1742 3564 2.4544 1452 Anse Royale 1851 1836 3687 7.18207 513 Au Cap 1624 1591 3215 8.28006 388 Cascade 1780 1668 3448 10.04542 343 Point Larue 1343 1374 2717 3.373953 805 Takamaka 1337 1272 2609 14.3418 182 North Anse Etoile 2325 2069 4394 5.85143 751 Beau Vallon 1914 1902 3816 4.60563 829 Bel Ombre 1891 1731 3622 9.37918 386 Glacis 1775 1817 3592 6.68237 538 West Anse Boileau 2069 1967 4036 12.06355 335 Grand Anse Mahé 1328 1266 2594 15.7516 165 Baie Lazare 1523 1461 2984 12.06837 247 Port Glaud 1091 1093 2184 26.6759 82 Praslin Baie Ste Anne 1810 1926 3736 22.553 166 Grand Anse Praslin 1548 1819 3367 15.05671 224 La Digue 1070 1034 2104 14.6 144 Other Islands 216 876 1092 248.1 4 Total 40751 41004 81755 455.5 179 Source: Population and Housing Census 2002
The president of the Republic of Seychelles is both the chief of state and head of government and is elected by popular vote for a 5-year term. The Council of Ministers serves as the cabinet, and its members are appointed by the President. The unicameral National Assembly has 34 seats: 25 elected by popular vote and 9 allocated on a proportional basis to parties winning at least 10% of the vote; members serve 5-year terms. The judicial branch includes a Court of Appeal and Supreme Court; judges for both courts are appointed by the President. The legal system is based on a combination of English common law, French civil law, and customary law.
Since 1992, the Seychelles has had a multi-party system with the adoption of a new Constitution. Multi-party elections (presidential and legislative) took place in 1993, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2006, and 2007. The Seychelles People’s Progressive Front (SPPF), renamed Parti Lepep in June 2009, has won the presidency and the majority in the National Assembly in all the elections.
The last presidential elections were held in July 2006. Incumbent President James Michel of the Seychelles People’s Progressive Front, who was appointed to power by former President René in 2004, won his first elected term. The final vote count was 53.73% for Michel to 45.71% for opposition alliance candidate, Wavel Ramkalawan, leader of the Seychelles National Party. The electoral process for the 2006 presidential elections was deemed to be credible by international observers. Following a six-month boycott in the
17 National Assembly by the SNP opposition party, President Michel dissolved the National Assembly on March 20, 2007. Early elections to fill the vacated National Assembly seats were held May 10-12, 2007. The SPPF won 18 district seats and the SNP/DP alliance won 7 district seats. Under the system of proportional representation, the SPPF won 5 seats and the SNP/DP alliance won 4 seats.
The economy of the Seychelles depends on two main sectors, tourism and fisheries, which provide the bulk of national income as well as foreign exchange. Tourism especially is very sensitive to changes in the international economic and political environment. In addition, the economy of Seychelles is, to a very large extent, dependent on imports. Many basic commodities, such as staple foods and other essential items, and a large share of inputs for local production are imported.
The country has been able to achieve relatively high levels of GNP per capita. GNP per capita rose from around US $6000 in 1994 to over US $8,000 in 2001. Following structural reforms which started in November 2008, the GNP is currently slightly lower. (Note: figures for the GDP are slightly different across the board). The country is undergoing a range of structural reforms constituting a marked departure from the command-and-control style of economic policy implemented in recent decades.
The Government launched the Strategy 2017 initiative in 2007, which is aimed at doubling the country’s GDP within a period of 10 years, by promoting the key economic sectors of tourism, fisheries and financial services, enhancing government efficiency, improving the functioning of the labour market, fostering private business and enhancing social structures. The Strategy also calls for the participation in regional trading blocks.
Seychelles culture is a mixture of mostly French and African influences. Creole is the native language of 94% of the people; however, English and French are also national languages and are commonly used. English remains the language of government and commerce. Christianity is the dominant religion with 86.6% claiming to belong to the Roman Catholic faith and 10.9% to other Christian denominations.
Seychellois traders
Photo: Gender Links
seychelles traders
18 Map of Seychelles
(Note: all the islands or groups of islands between Bird Island in the north, Aldabra in the west, Coetivy in the east and Farqhuar Atoll in the south are part of the Republic of Seychelles. Many of these islands do not have permanent settlements.)
19 person without discrimination on any ground
CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL RIGHTS Article 4-11
Constitutional and affirmative action provisions The Protocol provides that by 2015, all co ensure that these are not compromised by any provisions, laws or practices. State parties are to implement legislative and othe measures that eliminate all practi affirmative action measures
As described in the table below, gender provisionsuntries shallare not endeavour explicit in to the enshrine Constitution. gender Formal discrimination against women in the public sphere is no longer prevalentces in which Seychelles negatively as a resultaffect ofthe legislative fundamental safeguards. rights For example, the 1993 Seychelles Constitution of the third Republic (hereafter referred to as the Constitution) guarantees the right to equal protection before the law for every . The Constitution was amended to remove most gender discriminatory language and in general is assumed to be gender neutral, making no distinction between the sexes. The word ‘person’ is used when referring to a citizen of the country or to any other human being. When the Constitution refers to categories of persons, it uses words with specific reference to their status or role, e.g. the aged, the disabled or mothers as in the affirmationequality of theand rights equity of inworking their Constitutions mothers.
A constitutional review is currently taking place but there is no information available toof indicatewomen thatand men.there Theywill be are any also impl toications introdu for gender specifically.
and r ce Table 2: Analysis of gender equality clauses in the Constitution Provides for non Provides Provides for non Provides Has other Has claw Addresses Provides for discrimination for non discrimination on the for the provisions back the issue affirmative action generally discrimin basis of sex and others promotion that relate clauses of ation e.g. marital status, of gender to gender contradicti based pregnancy (list these) equality; equality, ons on sex please e.g. bodily between specifica give integrity the lly examples Constitutio n, provisions, laws and practices. YES NO YES NO NO NO NO YES
Article 27 Article 30 Article 27 1. Every person has a The state recognizes 2. Clause (1) shall right to equal the unique status and not preclude any protection of the law natural maternal law, programme or including the functions of women in activity which has enjoyment of the society and undertakes as its object the rights and as a result to take amelioration of the freedoms set out in appropriate measures conditions of this Charter without to ensure that a disadvantaged discrimination on any working mother is persons or groups. ground except as is afforded special necessary in a protection with regard democratic society. to paid leave and her conditions at work during such reasonable period as provided by law before and after
21 childbirth. (Note: there were discussions on paternity leave in the mid-90s but this was not taken further). Source: Laws of Seychelles, CAP 42, Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles: Revised Edition 1994
In addition to the above, Article 11 of the Constitution states that a person born outside Seychelles after the coming into force of the Constitution shall become a citizen of Seychelles if either the mother or the father is a citizen of Seychelles.
22 Affirmative Action
Affirmative action is a rather foreign concept in the country. In discussions with decision-makers it was clear that most think that gender equality already exists in Seychelles and that there is no need to introduce affirmative action programmes. The prevailing current view is that much has already been done to establish gender equality and parity, that there are no real gender problems in the country and that in fact it may be the males who have been and are being neglected in the process. According to data available, Seychellois males have shorter life expectancies, are more vulnerable to disease and consistently under perform at school especially when compared to females (Brû-Rosalie, 2008).
Harmful Traditional Practices
There are no known harmful traditional practices for women (now or in the past). No FGM, no forced marriage, no child marriage, no passing on of wives after a husband’s death, no sexually related traditional practice of any sort, no imposed rights of in-laws on a couple’s property - relating to inheritance, etc. On the other hand, there are subtle assumptions made as to the role of a girl/woman in life and at home and these have not changed despite the fact that women and men have similar lives in the public sphere. Studies done in the area of gender violence have looked at the number of cases of violence that occur and at the type of violence perpetrated. So far no study of a psychosocial nature has been done to understand what underlies the patterns of violence; although figures indicate that cases of violence are either on the increase or are now more frequently reported.
Box 1: Practices that discriminate against women
Domestic violence (intimate partner violence as well as violence towards other family members) is a significant and growing problem in Seychelles. In July 2008 the Ministry of Health and Social Development launched the National Strategy on Domestic Violence 2008-2012. A situational analysis of services available to deal directly and indirectly with domestic violence was conducted in 2008. This assessment found that although domestic violence is frequently dealt with by many service providers in the government and civil society, none have any specific procedures to guide their response. Findings of the situational analysis will inform the development of procedures/guidelines for the multiple service providers. An EU/UNDP Human Rights programme in the country also has plans for the training of police and proposals have been made for an accredited training programme.
Discriminatory legislation The SADC Protocol provides that by 2015 SADC countries shall have reviewed, amended or repealed all discriminatory laws and specifically abolish the minority status of women.
Abolishing the Minority Status of Women
23 Women do not have minority status in Seychelles although there are some disparities in some laws, in particular, regarding the age of consent and the age of marriage for girls and boys. An exercise to harmonize laws was carried out between 2000 and 2002 by an inter-ministerial committee led by a local external consultant reporting to the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs. Some of the recommendations have been taken on board by integrating them in new policies but the recommendation concerning the disparity mentioned earlier in this paragraph has still not been implemented.
Table three: Remaining discriminatory legislation Discriminatory legislation Action being taken Comments Existence of a gender disparity both Proposals to amend this This is a long standing issue which in the minimum age of consent to piece of legislation is still started in 2000. It has often been sex and the minimum age of being considered by the debated in various forums. The marriage for boys and girls. Department of Social recommendations of the above Minimum age for marriage is 18 Development mentioned document on the years for males and females but the harmonization of laws have still not law provides for girls (only) aged been fully resolved. It should be between 15 -17 years the ability to noted that even though the age of marry with parental consent. consent to sex is 15 years, girls and Minimum age of consent to sex is boys cannot have access to 15 years but it is not clear whether contraceptives without parental this age applies to both girls and consent until they are 18yrs. boys. Source: Ministry of Social Affairs and Manpower Development, 2000
Access to justice The Protocol provides for equality in accessing justice
Table 4: Access to justice Access to justice provision On a scale of 1-10 with Provide an explanation 1 very low and 10 very high how would you score your country Equality of treatment of women in Judicial proceedings do not judicial and quasi judicial differentiate between males and proceedings females. Equal contractual rights No differences between males and females. The right to acquire and hold rights Equal rights for both sexes. to property Encouraging women to exercise The Family Tribunal deals with their legal capacity cases involving child maintenance, custody and protection of victims of family violence. Most of the cases are brought forward by women. The same is true of Probation Services. Ensuring equality of women Article 27 of the Constitution
24 complainants in the criminal justice guarantees the right to equal system protection before the law for every person without discrimination on any grounds. Equal representation in the courts, Seychelles has no traditional courts. including traditional courts In the formal courts women represent only 18% of this level of the judiciary (2 of the 3 magistrates are female but all 8 high court judges are male). Accessible and affordable legal Legal services are available to services for women males and females equally. In addition to free legal counsel offered to all accused who cannot afford paying services, free services are also available through Social Services for certain situations. The Family Tribunal services and the Probation services are also offered free of charge. Sources: Social Development, 2007; Brû-Rosalie, 2008
Marriage and family laws; widows and widowers; the girl and boy child The Protocol makes reference to the following specific legislative provisions: Marriage and family rights and the rights of widows; elderly women; the girl child; women with disabilities.
Marriage and Family Laws
The key marriage and family laws in Seychelles are the Children Act, the Matrimonial Causes Act, the Civil Code and the Family Protection Act.
Table 5: Marriage and family laws; the boy and girl child Provision Yes/No Explain Marriage No person under the age of 18 shall No Minimum age is 18 years although the law marry. provides for girls only aged between 15 -17 years the ability to marry, with parental consent. The Minister has the mandate to make the final decision in cases where parental consent is lacking for girls and all cases of marriage for boys aged less than 18 years. Every marriage takes place with the full Yes Guaranteed by law consent of both parties. Every marriage including civil, religious, Yes Guaranteed by law traditional or customary is registered. Parties have reciprocal rights and duties Yes Guaranteed by legislation (in particular the towards their children including when Children Act) and enforced by Family Tribunal.
25 Provision Yes/No Explain spouses separate, divorce or have marriages annulled. Maintenance orders are enforced. Yes The Matrimonial Causes Act makes provisions under the satisfaction of the court, for maintenance payments pending suit. There are also provisions in the Children Act. Married women and men have the right Yes Guaranteed by law - various. Also in the to decide whether to retain their Constitution, Article 12 (1) and (2). nationality or acquire spouse’s nationality. Widows and widowers Widows are not subjected to inhuman, Yes Guaranteed by law. Article 16 of the Constitution humiliating or degrading treatment. states that every person has a right to be treated with dignity and not to be subjected to torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. A widow automatically becomes Yes According to the Children Act, the guardianship guardian or custodian of her children, of children is first and foremost held by the unless otherwise determined by a court child’s natural parents - unless a court decides of law. otherwise. A widow shall have the right to live in No This right is not guaranteed. Formerly, marriages the matrimonial house after her were contracted under what was known as the husband’s death. ‘Regime de Communauté des Biens’ which gave the spouse automatic claim on half of the properties belonging to their partner. This is however no longer the case; presently a wife/husband or common-law wife/husband, has no automatic claim to land or property in cases of divorce, unless she/he can produce receipts of her/his share of expenses. (Women living with partners, married or common-law, are encouraged to register assets in both names so that they can benefit should their partner leave or die). A widow shall have access to Yes Employment Law applicable to everyone (of employment and other opportunities. working age) equally. Widows shall have the right to an The right of women (married or unmarried) to equitable share in the inheritance of own land and property and to inherit equally is her husband’s property. guaranteed under several legislative documents and is no longer a gender issue in Seychelles. Widows shall have the right to remarry Yes This is not/has never been an issue in Seychelles. any person of their choice. There are no cultural or legal barriers to a single/widowed/divorced woman marrying who she wants, when she wants. Widows shall be protected from all Yes Guaranteed by Penal Code and Constitution. forms of violence and discrimination Girl and boy child
26 Provision Yes/No Explain Eliminating all forms of discrimination Yes Guaranteed by Constitution and Convention of against the girl child. the Rights of the Child which the Seychelles has ratified. Girls have the same rights as boys and Yes Guaranteed by Constitution and Convention of are protected from harmful cultural the Rights of the Child which the Seychelles has attitudes. ratified. Girls are protected from all forms of Yes The Penal Code, chapter XV (Offences against economic exploitation, trafficking, Morality) has 16 sections out of 28 that relate to violence and sexual abuse. the protection of girls and women. Offences covered range from rape to defilement to incest. The Children Act contains a chapter on offences against children; it also strictly forbids the economic exploitation of girls and boys. Girl children have access to Yes Government set up a Youth Health Centre (YHC) information, education, services and in 1995 with the mandate to provide youth facilities on sexual and reproductive friendly ARH services, including advice, medical health and rights. care and counselling on reproductive and health issues. The YHC services have predominantly been accessed by girls and young women who account for 85% of all clients in 2005. The Centre has proved increasingly popular with young teenagers, with 38% clients visiting the Centre aged below 18 years in 2005 compared to 32% in the previous year. The majority of clients visiting the centre in 2005 accessed reproductive and sexual health services (49%), compared to 22% for intensive counselling and 29% for education and information about drugs, alcohol and smoking. Source: Gender Secretariat, 2007
27 GOVERNANCE Article12-13 The SADC Protocol provides that member states should endeavour to ensure that 50% of decision-making positions in all public and private sectors are held by women including through the use of affirmative action measures.
Gender and political parties
Table 6: Representation of women and men in key party structures PARTY HEAD TREASURER SECRETARY FOURTH FIFTH SIXTH GENERAL TOP TOP TOP POSITION POSITION POSITION M F M F M F M F M F M F Parti Le Pep (ruling party) Seychelles National Party (SNP) (main opposition party) Democratic Party (DP) Source: Discussion with party leaders, 2009
The relevant representatives (who were interviewed) of all three parties are aware of the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development document. However, no tangible plans have been put in place to achieve these targets.
Party Quotas for the representation of women
The parties do not have a quota for representation of women. As indicated in the graph and table below, Seychelles compares in the average range against other countries in the SADC region in terms of representation of women in parliament.
Graph 1: Proportion of women and men in SADC parliaments
Proportion of women and men in SADC parliaments
100 91 92 85 89 90 82 83 74 77 78 78 80 69 70 63 65 70 58 60 %F 42 50 37 40 35 31 %M 30 26 30 23 22 22 18 17 15 20 11 9 8 10 0
a a ca la ho es us na i o ibia t l awi and i a zani al l w ascar DRC Ang M babwe s g Nam an Leso chel m aurit Zambi a T ey M Bot S Swazi Zi ad South Afr Mozambique M
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
28 Global and regional ranking of women parliamentarians Country % Women in lower or Global rank SADC Rank single house South Africa 44.5% 3 1 Angola 37.3% 9 2 Mozambique 34.8% 15 3 Tanzania 30.4% 23 4 Namibia 26.9 % 21 5 Lesotho 25% 38 6 Seychelles 23.5% 41 7 Malawi 20.5% 52 8 Mauritius 17.1 % 66 9 Zimbabwe 16% 77 10 Zambia 15.2% 77 10 Swaziland 13.8% 83 12 Botswana 11.1% 95 13 DRC 8.4% 108 14 Madagascar Source: www.ipu.org
Election candidates chosen for the party
Election candidates for all parties are chosen based on the party selection process, whereby the best candidate gets nominated (the implication being that gender is not a consideration in the selection). The country has a constituency system but no primaries. Decisions are party based. The country also has PR system. The nomination process is party based.
Women’s Wing
All three political parties have a women’s wing. The women’s wing is to promote the rights of women in the party, government and the country; they also promote the legality of rights for women in Seychelles. One of the main challenges is to see women participating fully in the upper hierarchy of the political parties and in government. Their programmes cover many social and educational issues facing the country, which include HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy, prostitution, education, employment etc. Interventions are mostly through meetings.
There are more women at the party level than at the legislative and government level. Women are seen as the foundation stone of the party especially in the case of the ruling party. The ex-President, Mr. France Albert Rene, is reported as having said in an interview: “It is the women who have built and made the party and this has to be recognised.”
Measurable impact of women in the party
According to representatives of the ruling party, women’s inclusion in the party decision- making structure has contributed to party decisions. The example given was that the
29 creation of the Family Tribunal was the result of deliberations within the party structure. In addition, measurable impacts women make in political parties can be evaluated by the fact that there are more women voters on the register and they do exercise their right to vote. As reported and as is clearly seen during electoral campaigns, women in political parties are more militant, they are perceived as being the real activists of the parties.
There are no real gender considerations in party manifestos as the Seychelles Constitution already ensures that men and women have the same rights.
Table 7: Gender in political party manifestos PARTY QUOTA AND WOMEN SPECIFIC GENDER MAINSTREAMED NATURE/ NO PROJECTS IN MANIFESTOS Parti Le Pep* NONE NONE NONE Seychelles NONE NONE NONE National Party (SNP) Democratic Party NONE NONE NONE Source: Discussions with party leaders, 2009 * Up to June 2009, this party used to be called the SPPF - Seychelles People’s Progressive Front
Campaign funding
Campaigns are funded by membership, sponsorship and government subventions which are usually based on the previous election results.
Gender in electoral processes
The electoral system is described in great detail in the country’s Constitution (it is described by a representative of the Electoral Commission as “First Past the Post, semi PR. Unique to Seychelles”). There is no debate about the electoral system and according to the Electoral Commission there is no plan to change the electoral system. Nonetheless, and as mentioned earlier, the Constitution is under review at this moment.
There are no indications that the electoral system has hindered the quest for gender parity despite the fact that there are no gender quotas. The electoral system is seen as fair by all political parties. No constitutional or legislative provisions exist regarding appointment in the legislature.
Gender Quotas
Quotas were not viewed as important by respondents; there was also no resistance to this either. Quotas were seen as necessary sometimes but not a priority. It should be highlighted that respondents did think that there should be more women in the top hierarchy of political parties and government, but did not indicate how this is to be achieved in practical terms.
30 The Election Management Body (EMB) consist of 1 Electoral Commissioner (male) and 1 Chief Registration Officer (male). At times of elections a technical body is formed. This body consists of the following: Electoral Commissioner, takes the position of Registrar of Political parties (male), Chief registration Officer (male), Chief Electoral Officer (female) and 2 other persons (males). The Chief Electoral Officer is in charge of organising the polls. During the election there are between 1200-1000 people working. When it comes to managing the polls, the majority are women (60%).
There is not much consideration given to the issue of gender in the electoral process. It can be noted that the majority of the voter education material depict women in the process of registering to vote, and voting.
The country has presidential elections conducted in the FPTP system. There was a woman candidate for the 2006 Presidential election, as a candidate for vice-president, from the main opposition party. The electoral process was deemed fair by observers.
Gender and voters
Note: It is to be noted that for tables 8 to 12, there were different opinions regarding the meaning of the term “last two elections” which was interpreted to either mean ‘the elections before the last one’ or ‘the last two elections in chronological order’. Data is provided according to the first interpretation.
Table 8: Women and men registered to vote Last two elections (2002) Latest election (2006)
Age Women Men Total % Women Women Men Total % Women 18 – 25 5655 5807 11462 49.3 5473 5609 11082 49.4 26 – 35 7440 7539 14979 49.7 747 7578 15051 49.7 36 – 45 6957 7349 14306 48.6 7210 7372 14582 49.4 46 – 60 5155 5967 11122 46.3 6789 7653 14442 47.0 61+ 5641 4039 9680 58.3 5649 4187 9836 57.4 Total 30848 30701 61549 50.1 32594 32399 64993 50.2 Source: Electoral Commissioner’s Office, 2009
There are more women than men on the voters roll as indicated in Table 8 and there has been a slight increase in the number of women voters on the roll. The political parties target women heavily and generally women are more active than men in their respective parties, and as voters. Posters, banners, video clips, radio clips and manifestos do show women frequently. Gender is taken into account in the voter education process. Most of the voter education materials, video and radio clips highlight women exercising their right to vote.
Election outcomes
An analysis of the extent to which the political parties fielded women candidates in the last two elections (tables 9 and 10) clearly shows the unwillingness of the parties to select or nominate women to represent the party - men undoubtedly dominated at the middle and top level. There is no lack of choice of qualified women, both politically and
31 academically, at the lower levels within political parties - especially for Members of the Assembly. The tables show that the number of women fielded has decreased.
Table 9: Candidates fielded at national level (Presidential) PARTY LAST TWO ELECTIONS MOST RECENT ELECTIONS (2001) (2006) M F TOTAL %W M F TOTAL % W Parti Le Pep 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 Seychelles National Party 1 0 1 0 1 1 2 50 (SNP) DP 1 0 1 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A IND 2 0 2 2 0 2 0 TOTAL 6 0 6 0 5 1 6 7 Source: Electoral Commissioner’s Office, 2009
Table 10: Candidates fielded at local level (National Assembly) PARTY LAST TWO ELECTIONS MOST RECENT ELECTIONS (2002) (2007) M F TOTAL %W M F TOTAL % W Parti Le Pep 18 7 25 28 20 5 25 20 Seychelles National Party 21 4 25 16 23 2 25 8 (SNP) DP 23 2 25 8 N/A N/A N/A N/A IND 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 64 13 77 17 43 7 50 14 Source: Electoral Commissioner’s Office, 2009
Table 11: Election results national (Presidential) PARTY LAST TWO ELECTIONS MOST RECENT ELECTIONS (2001) (2006) M F TOTAL %W M F TOTAL % W Parti Le Pep 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 Seychelles National Party 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (SNP) DP 0 0 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A IND 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 Source: Electoral Commissioner’s Office, 2009
Table 12: Election results local (National Assembly) PARTY LAST TWO ELECTIONS MOST RECENT ELECTIONS (2002) (2007) M F TOTAL %W M F TOTAL % W Parti Le Pep 14 4 18 22 14 4 18 22 Seychelles National Party 6 1 7 14 7 0 7 0 (SNP) TOTAL 20 5 25 20 21 4 25 16 Source: Electoral Commissioner’s Office, 2009
32
Only one woman has been nominated to run in presidential elections in Seychelles so far - as a candidate for vice-president. She was nominated by the main opposition party in the 2006 elections. This party lost the elections.
Women‘s political participation over the last two elections has not shown any change. Women are still in the majority on the voter roll and are still in majority when it comes to voter participation. The only significance of the results of the last elections has been the fact that women will not vote for a woman candidate simply based on the gender issue. There is no difference between voting patterns at local and national levels. The lists of proportionate nominations submitted by the political parties to the assembly show a preference for more men than women to represent them in the Legislative Assembly.
There were fewer women fielded in the last National Assembly election (2007) from both ruling, and main opposition parties. The ruling party which fielded 5 women fared well with their candidates, 4 of them won the election. The main opposition which fielded only 3 women fared badly, all women candidates lost the election.
Cabinet
Table 13: Women and men in cabinet No women No of men Total % women % men Ministers 2 8 10 20 80 Deputy ministers Non-existent X X X X Position Source: DPA, 2009
Since the mid-80s there have almost always been 2 to 3 women ministers in cabinet. The highest point ever reached was during the 2001 - 2004 period: there were 3 women ministers in a cabinet of 13 ministers, i.e. 30%. Today it is 2 women out of 10 ministers (20%). This situation does not show progress to reach the SADC benchmark of gender parity.
Women ministers in Seychelles have been in education (two), foreign affairs (one), environment (one), economic planning (one), employment (one), health (two), administration (one), social affairs/social development (one), local government/community development (one), tourism (one), sports/culture/youth (one). There have never been women ministers in finance, agriculture and natural resources.
As highlighted in the graph below, the Seychelles compares below average with the other countries in the SADC region with regards to women represented in cabinet.
33 Graph 2: Proportion of women and men in cabinet
Proportion of women and men in cabinet
100 90 92 83 90 76 77 78 80 80 81 80 68 72 72 72 70 59 60 % Women 50 41 40 32 28 28 28 % Men 24 23 22 30 20 20 19 17 20 10 8 10 0
a e i a e c la d i C ri tho b nia R w o go iqu law m D Af n b zilan a za wana uritius ab es A m a M s amibia a b h L a Za N ut w Tan Bot M o S Seychelles Zim S Moz
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
The public service
Table 14: Women and men in the public service No women No of men Total % women % men Permanent 8 26 34 24 76 secretaries/DG Senior 54 89 143 38 62 managers Total 62 115 177 35 65 Source: DPA, 2009
The country is not close to achieving gender parity at senior level. Senior posts in the public service have traditionally been male dominated whereas the lower levels have been and still are female dominated. Discussion of quotas may need to be introduced.
Participation The Protocol provides that State Parties shall ensure the equal participation of women and men in decision-making by putting in place policies, strategies and programmes covering the various aspects in the table below:
Table 15: Enhancing participation by women in public life Measure of participation On a scale of 1-10 Explanation with 1 very low and 10 very high how would you score your country Leadership, gender sensitivity 5 Scholarship training young leaders scheme, training or mentorship young parliamentarians scheme - these programme do not target women
34 specifically. Support structures for women in 6 There is an association for women decision-making professionals - SAWOP (which is also linked to the Forum of African Women Educationalists). Establishment and strengthening 4 A number of policies have been designed of structures to enhance gender and formalized since the mid-1990s but it is mainstreaming not possible to identify ‘structures’ for gender mainstreaming. Recently a gender committee at national level has been formed* which is meant to help with a national gender policy and other gender related activities. Changing discriminatory attitudes 7 Structures and procedures are not and norms of structures and discriminatory. Attitudes maybe - but there procedures is no substantiated evidence to this effect. Inclusion of men in gender related 4 One of the officers in the 3-person gender activities including community secretariat is male. Are males included mobilization intentionally in activities? No one can give an answer to this question. Source: President’s Office, 2009; Interviews with various individuals * A National Gender Committee has been in existence for the last 15 years but it has had a very chequered track record and has been rather dormant in the last few years.
There are no quotas, no mechanisms or official requirements along the lines of facilitating effective participation, these are felt not to be needed (Brû-Rosalie, 2008).
Gender Links field work in Seychelles Photo: Loga Virahsawmy Introduction 023
35 EDUCATION AND TRAINING Article 14
Enrolment and retention The Protocol provides that state parties shall enact laws that promote equal access to and retention in primary, secondary, tertiary, vocational and non-formal education
Table 16: Access and enrolment in education sector/specify the year Type of data Boys/men Girls /girls Total % % men/ boys women/girls Literacy Enrolment Primary School 5753 5914 11667 51 49 Secondary 3811 3731 7542 51 49 School Post Secondary 1209 921 2130 57 43 Tertiary level Vocational Drop out Primary school 0 0 0 0 0
Secondary School * Post Secondary school Tertiary level Vocational Source: Ministry of Education, 2009 *According to the Ministry of Education, a number of boys drop out of school as from the second year of secondary, but no official statistics are available.
Primary School
Graph 3: Proportion of girls and boys in primary schools
Prorportion of girls and boys in primary schools
55 56 54 53 54 52 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 52 5050 50 50 49 49 49 49 49 49 49 49 50 48 47 % Girls 48 46 46 46 % Boys 44 42 40
a s wi ia C tho ibi lle a ana o al w mb DR es M ts Africa a Angola L Nam o h Z TanzaniaB Mauritius Seyche Swaziland Madagascar Sout Mozambique
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
36 As indicated in the graph above, the Seychelles compares very favourably against the region in terms of girls represented in primary education. There is currently 100% enrolment in primary education in the Seychelles, as reported by the Ministry of Education. Figures for primary, secondary and post-secondary education show that there are more females enrolled than males. Primary school education is free and compulsory for both girls and boys in the state school system - this is in line with the Education Act. Pupils start pre-primary school in crèche year one and exit primary schools at Primary Six. In all, Seychellois boys and girls are provided with eight years of pre-primary and primary education.
Secondary School
Secondary education is free and compulsory for girls and boys. Enrolment rates indicate an almost 50-50 distribution in terms of girls and boys in secondary schools. Seychellois children enter secondary school at Secondary One and exit at the end of Secondary Five. At the exit point students who qualify can sit for IGCSEs in English, Mathematics, Sciences and Social Sciences (History and Geography). They also get the opportunity to sit for the DELF, which is an internationally administered exam in French. Access to these exams is irrespective of gender. Only performance is taken as the criteria for selection. As indicated in the graph below, although still above average compared to other countries in the SADC region, the Seychelles decreases its representation of girls in secondary schools from the former excellent primary school results.
Graph 4: Proportion of girls and boys in secondary schools
Percentage of learners by gender
70 64 56 55 54 55 56 56 56 56 60 52 52 51 52 52 48 48 48 49 5050 48 48 50 44 46 45 44 44 44 44 40 36 % Female 30 P % Male 20 10 0
a c s a a C ri le ol f ibia l land g lawi que ani A e i n a bi DR h A M nz Lesotho th Zambia u Nam Mauritiuseyc am Ta Botswana S Swaz Zimbabwe oz So Madagascar M
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Access to higher education happens in two modes. The first mode is after successful completion of post secondary education. Three post secondary institutions offer access to higher education to students directly after successful completion of their studies. This is the National Institute of Education, the School for A Level Studies (SALS) and the Seychelles Polytechnic. In all three cases access is solely based on performance and
37 results. There is no gender preference; boys and girls have equal opportunity and access. The second mode is through government scholarships given to in-service employees. The policy is again clear that performance is the only criteria for selection and all indications are that this policy is rigorously applied.
Post-Secondary education is free but not compulsory. In cases where students are deemed to have financial problems they are also given an allowance for incidental expenses. Travel to and from the post secondary institutions is free as all students who need it are issued with travel cards. Students make no contributions towards these cards. As highlighted in the graph below, the Seychelles is ranked highest in the region with regards to women represented in tertiary education.
Graph 5: Proportion of women and men in tertiary education
Percentage of teriary learners by gender
80 74 68 70 60 62 62 57 56 57 56 60 54 53 53 52 51 47 47 5050 49 50 43 44 46 44 40 39 38 % Female 40 32 P % Male 30 26 20 10 0
s s a u ca o l lle ti ri th go DRC uri Zambia eso An Malawi yche NamibiaMa uth Af L Tanzania Se Botswana Swaziland So Madagascar Mozambique
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Affirmative Action policy on admission at the University
The country does not have an affirmative action policy on admission at university level as this is not seen as applicable in the Seychelles context.
Policy on teenage pregnancy
In 2002 for example, the education policy was changed to make it possible for a female student to attend classes while pregnant and to resume school after having given birth - although not at the same school for primary or secondary students. In cases where the mother is still at the age of compulsory schooling it is a requirement to return to school. The country’s policy on teenage pregnancy also allows for legal action whenever a case is proven to be in infringement of existing laws. There is continuous education to inform students about the risks of teenage pregnancy.
38 Learners who are fathers receive the same treatment as mothers. Should a pregnancy result out of an infringement on the law such as rape then in this case the perpetuator has to face the law. In other cases, should the person be deemed unfit to go back in the school environment then counselling ensues. Should counselling prove to be successful there are opportunities for this person to re-enter the school system.
Teenage pregnancy does affect drop-out rates. In the past it has often been considered as being among those situations that would lead to a student dropping out but this is no longer the case.
Performance
Table 17: Pass rates % boys/men % girls/women Primary Approx 55% Approx 65% Secondary Not available Not available University N/A N/A Vocational Source: Ministry of Education, 2009
The pass rates for primary were readily available but it was not possible within the time-frame given for this research to find the pass rates for secondary and post-secondary or other categories.
In terms of performance of girls and boys in primary school, the SACMEQ study of 2005 shows that boys in the last year of primary (P6) consistently underperform in most subjects. Mean scores for boys and girls in reading and mathematics for example, showed that girls scored better than boys in both subjects. The report indicates that this situation could be the result of streaming and that the ‘practice of streaming favoured girls getting into the top stream and produced a selection bias that contributed to the large gender differences in achievement between boys and girls’ (Leste et al., 2005). In fact, as highlighted in the graph below, the Seychelles is the only country in the SADC region where literacy rates of girls are higher than of boys (Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009).
Graph 6: Literacy rates
Literacy Rates
94 100 9291 88 89 89 90 87 87 85 83 8383 84 90 80 7881 77 79 78 81 81 80 65 65 70 62 61 59 54 57 60 % Female 50 40 33 % Male 30 20 10 0
a s c d la C e le ia ius n o u ib it la ania q Afri i alawi DR bi m z nz th aur M Zambia Ang m Na u M Lesotho Ta Seychel Zimbabwe o BotswanaSwa oza S Madagascar M 39 Several additional studies (Ministry of Education and Youth, 2002a; Albert, 2005) have been carried out and pilot programmes have been launched to make the school environment more boy-friendly. In 2008 a Gender Action Team (GAT) was set up to enforce the implementation of an Action Research project on integrating gender into school and classroom practices in Secondary Schools. This project is being piloted in two secondary schools namely, Anse Boileau and Mont Fleuri and preliminary results already show signs of an improved school environment as well as an improvement of students conduct generally, including boys (Pardiwalla, 2008). The project is funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat.
The GAT which has also worked on a policy document specifically related to gender stereotypes and other gender related issues. This document is currently being reviewed by the education reform committee.
Challenging stereotypes The Protocol requires that by 2015 state parties adopt and implement gender sensitive educational policies and programmes addressing gender stereotypes in education and gender-based violence.
Table 18: Gender disaggregated data on school administration No No men Total % % men Staff category women women Primary Principals 27 6 33 82 18 Teachers 1109 438 1547 72 28 Post-Secondary Directors 3 5 8 38 62 School governing bodies NA NA NA NA NA Source: Ministry of Education, 2009 Note: There are no school governing bodies for state schools (there are only 3 private schools in the country). The schools are centrally managed by the Schools Division within the Ministry of Education - staff is predominantly female. Numbers have also been provided for post-secondary directorship as a possible alternative.
The table above seems to illustrate that there is little gender balance in relation to school administration. There is a dearth of evidence as to why this may be so. Women outweigh men as principals of primary school and as teachers while men outweigh women as directors of post-secondary institutions. It is pertinent to deconstruct this issue further. In primary schools, though the statistics are not present in this table there are 522 female teachers to only 94 men. This represents a staggering 85% of the teacher population at this level. However, in secondary school and post secondary schools the issue is different. As is evident from educational statistics the ratio of men to women in secondary schools is almost 50-50. In post secondary schools there are 123 male teachers to 93 female teachers.
As indicated in the graph below, the Seychelles ranks as the highest in the SADC region when it comes to women represented in the teaching profession.
40 Graph 7: Proportion of women and men teachers
Proportion of women and men teachers
90 80 81 80 72 69 70 65 62 63 65 70 57 60 51 52 53 55 49 48 47 45 50 43 % women 35 38 37 35 40 28 31 30 % men 30 20 19 20 10 0
a a a i C ius bi ca ni na ue R it i fri a q r m A za D u a ambi sw Malaw Angola a N Lesothoth Z M Tan Bot zambi Seychelles ou Zimbabwe o S M Madagascar
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Information from interviews indicates that access to the leadership of educational institutions guarantees equal opportunities for both men and women. In the past decade there have been several attempts to balance the number of men and women in educational institutions. However, according to interviewees, many factors such as societal beliefs about teaching have contributed to an imbalance of men and women in the administration of education in the Seychelles.
Table 19: Women and men in university faculties (There are no universities in Seychelles yet) Faculty No No men Total % % men women women Arts and Humanities Science Economic Sciences Law Medicine
Seychelles does not actually have a university as of yet. However, there is data available on post secondary institutions that may be useful for the discussion. See table below.
Faculty No No men Total % % men women women SALS 94 92 186 51 49 NIE 400 75 475 84 16 MTC 39 115 154 25 75 SIT 28 482 510 5 95 NIHSS 226 31 257 88 12 Seychelles Polytechnic 159 43 192 82 18
41 SAHTC 49 42 91 54 46 STA 319 75 394 81 19 Source: Ministry of Education, 2009 Note: SALS: School of A level Studies NIE: National Institute of Education MTC: Maritime Training Centre NIHSS: National Institute of Health Social Studies SAHTC: Seychelles Agricultural and Horticultural Training Centre SIT: Seychelles Institute of Technology STA: Seychelles Tourism Training Centre Seychelles Polytechnic: offers courses in Business Studies and Secretarial Studies
The SALS offers A-level courses and thus far enrolment to this course has always been balanced. The statistics above which are from the 2008 enrolment records show that there is almost a 1:1 ratio. The NIE offers teacher training courses and as the table illustrates far more girls than boys enrol for training at the NIE. These statistics correlate with the number of female teachers and administrators in schools. MTC offers courses related to maritime training. Though the number of females enrolling for courses there has increased, it remains a predominantly male oriented field as is exemplified by the fact that the majority of females have actually enrolled into fisheries science courses rather than maritime training in boat handling, navigation etc. SIT offers courses mainly in the construction and engineering area. As the statistics show, very few females enrol at SIT and those who do often opt for the painting and decorating training area. NIHSS offers training in health related fields. It remains a predominantly female oriented profession with the majority of students in the nursing training cohort being females and the few males who enrolled chose fields such as paramedics, pharmacy and laboratory sciences. Seychelles Polytechnic offers training for secretarial and business areas. The majority of boys who enrolled at this school are following business courses. SAHTC has always seen a balanced enrolment rate as it offers training related to agriculture and farming. Boys and girls enrol equally for courses there.
According to a senior official at the Ministry of Education areas such as construction, engineering or maritime studies are considered male-related fields. This stems from societal beliefs. There are very few women doing jobs such as carpentry, masonry, auto- mechanics or working in and around ships. However, fields such as nursing or teaching are considered female-related fields and girls mainly opt for courses in those areas. Hence the stereotype that women can do some jobs and not others is perpetuated. In addition, most of these stereotypes are based on whether “a woman can climb a ladder with bricks” or “hose down a ship”.
Education has been trying to challenge these stereotypes. The Education Act is clear about equal opportunities. However, there is a need for more widespread sensitization and this is set to be addressed by the comprehensive gender policy for education which is currently going through the approval process.
Several studies have been carried out to understand the situation regarding gender in the education sector and these have been used to inform policy making.
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‘Women breaking stereotypes’ Photo: Chancegal Elèves école agriculture 5
The ICPD report of 2003 has the following to contribute to gender in education:
“Following the Beijing Conference, the Ministry of Education was one of the first national Ministries to set up a gender focal point in 1996 and appoint a Gender in Education Committee. The Gender in Education Committee played an active part in raising awareness of gender issues and developed an action plan to address the problems identified. The Gender Strategy and Action Plan (1996) consisted of a two-pronged strategy a) gender sensitization and capacity building, and b) mainstreaming gender in education. The combined actions of these two strategies contributed in meeting many of the objectives set in Beijing. In 1996, the Ministry launched a major sensitization programme with the help of a gender consultant funded by the Commonwealth Secretariat. Throughout 1996 and 1997, gender sensitization workshops were held for all categories of staff in education. Key groups of staff like curriculum developers, career guidance teachers, Heads of Polytechnic Schools, teacher trainers and classroom teachers from all levels followed the sensitization programmes. In all, over 450 members of staff were targeted (and received training).
The content of programmes and teaching materials were screened for gender biases. Twenty-two staff in education were selected to follow intensive training of trainers courses and conduct gender sensitization programmes. A manual for the gender trainers was developed. In its efforts to build capacity for gender training, the Ministry established close links with the Seychelles Association of Women Professionals (SAWOP) and the Forum for African Women
43 Educationalists (FAWE) who funded the initial training of a small group of trainers and their participation at regional workshops.
Directors and Heads of Units in Education followed a course in Gender Planning and Management organised by the Ministry of Administration and Manpower in December 1996, to allow them to integrate gender into planning processes. This has had some positive results. Recent policy documents are gender responsive and recognise the differing needs of girls and boys. National Examination results and education statistics are now more systematically gender disaggregated so that the progress of both genders in education can be monitored and all disparities highlighted. Gender has been successfully integrated into the new Ministry of Education’s Strategic Plan (ESP), initial teacher training programmes and major projects such as the school improvement programme.
The new Personal and Social Education (PSE) Programme, which is compulsory for all students, discusses family responsibilities and relationships in gender sensitive ways which are not limited by traditional roles and tasks. Accurate information on growth and development as normal processes for both boys and girls is given to students, and gender sensitive careers education and counselling are being introduced from very early ages. This will bring about attitudinal changes over time and help boys and girls develop new and stronger relationships based on respect and equality for both genders” (Social Development Division, 2003, pp 20-21).
Material for primary schools is prepared locally and great care is taken to avoid reinforcing gender stereotypes. Material for secondary school is purchased from overseas and is not checked for gender biases by the Ministry of Education.
Box two: Example of gender stereotypes in educational materials
No specific example found in locally prepared teaching material.
Gender violence in schools
Institutions of learning in the Seychelles are typically safe. Legally, students are protected by the education act and school policies. Most of these policies pick on issues of gender equity and gender sensitivity in instruction. Physically, there are systems and rules in place that ensure that children are watched over at all times, additionally, schools are fenced and gated and are provided with security personnel.
There have been a few cases of violence in schools over the last decade but these are rare and are considered exceptional. Seychelles schools have from the past decade and a half become more gender sensitized. Issues of gender are also taken up on a school by school basis according to situations and needs.
Studies that have been conducted on GBV in the Education sector
44 As of yet gender-based violence in schools has not been the basis of any in-depth enquiry. This may be due to the fact that gender-based violence in schools has not been recorded on a frequent basis. Incidents, though very rare, are dealt with promptly and swiftly when they do occur.
All students are meant to be treated equally and fairly. Any violence against children, be it gender base or otherwise, is punishable by law. The Education Act is clear about the protection afforded to all students male or female. Teachers or principals who have committed acts of violence against students are heavily sanctioned. The results can be dismissal, suspension or civil court proceedings depending on the gravity of the case. There are clear policies regarding molesting any student male or female. If a teacher is caught or is found guilty of such an offence he/she will be subject to dismissal or court proceedings depending on findings of enquiry done in the matter.
There is a need to establish clearer links between education policy and the national legal and regulatory framework - but this has been taken up in the draft policy awaiting approval.
Seychellois woman
Photo: Gender Links
sychelles woman
45 PRODUCTIVE RESOURCES AND EMPLOYMENT, ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Article 15–19
Women and men in economic decision-making The Protocol provides that state parties shall, by 2015, ensure equal participation by women and men in policy formulation and implementation of economic policies.
Table 20: Women and men in economic decision-making Position Name MALE (TICK) FEMALE (TICK) Minister of Finance Danny FAURE Deputy Minister of Finance Does not exist Does not exist Does not exist Permanent secretary/DG Ahmed AFIF Minister of Economic Danny FAURE Planning Deputy Minister of Does not exist Does not exist Does not exist Economic Planning Permanent secretary/DG Ahmed AFIF Minister of Trade and Jacquelin DUGASSE Industry Deputy Minister of Trade Does not exist Does not exist Does not exist and Industry Permanent secretary/DG Does not exist Does not exist Does not exist Governor of the Central Pierre LAPORTE Bank Deputy Governor of Central Jennifer MOREL Bank Minister of Environment Joel MORGAN and Natural resources CEO - Seychelles Steve Fanny International Business Authority CEO - Seychelles Mrs Renaud Investment Bureau
TOTAL 10 8 2 PERCENTAGE 100 80 20 Source: Year 2009
Women do not hold high office in economic decision-making in the public sector. The top economic posts have been a male dominated area despite the fact that there are qualified women who could occupy these vacancies. One reason may be that many women go to work in the private sector where the salary is higher. It is also generally believed that the government (ruling party) has so far been unwilling to appoint an opposition supporter or presumed supporter to top economic posts in the public service even if that person is qualified.
Table 21: Private sector and parastatal leadership Women Men Total % women % men
46 Private sector Directors of Boards 3 33 36 8 92 CEOs 1 7 8 12 88 Parastatals Directors of boards 6 24 30 20 8 CEOs 6 24 30 20 80 Source: 2009-07-07
Note: The Seychelles does not have a stock exchange.
The top level of management in the private sector is male dominated. Information taken from the top 8 companies (these companies that are the most profitable and largest in the country) show that there was only 1 (one) woman who is both CEO and director of the company. The male dominance of large profitable companies covers all types of businesses: agriculture, construction, education, manufacturing, health and the hotel industry.
Leadership of parastatals is also male dominated. What is important to point out is that these parastatals are key companies either economically or strategically, for example these companies cover energy, airline, trade, banking, seaport and airport.
There are no stated policies that seek to ensure equal participation of women in policy formulation processes and implementation of economic policies. Resultantly, as indicated in the graph below, the Seychelles compares in the average range when it comes to female representation in economic decision-making positions in the country.
Graph 8: Proportion of women and men in government economic decision- making positions by country
Proportion of women and men in government economic decison making positions by country
120 100 100 81 82 86 87 75 77 78 79 79 80 80 80 67 60 63 % Female 60 40 37 33 % Male 40 25 23 22 21 21 20 20 19 18 14 13 20 0 0
a a C ar na ica bi land a fr ibia awi R itius m otho al D sw A am s gasc h Z Angola M aur wazi ot Na Le anzani B T M S SeychellesZimbabwe ada Sout Mozambique M
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Gender budgeting The Protocol provides that State Parties shall ensure gender responsive budgeting at the micro and macro levels including tracking; monitoring and evaluation.
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There is no information available on gender budgeting. In 2001 a workshop on integrating gender in national budgets, sponsored by the Commonwealth Secretariat, was organized for decision-makers but there is no evidence that this approach has been put into practice.
Time use The Protocol provides that by 2025, state parties shall conduct time use studies and adopt policy measures to ease the burden of the multiple roles played by women.
There was no official data available on this issue. It was not possible to get information from NGOs either. It is therefore reasonably safe to assume that time use is not an issue that has been considered in Seychelles.
Economic empowerment The Protocol provides that state parties shall by 2015 adopt policies and enact laws which ensure equal access, benefits and opportunities for women and men in trade and entrepreneurship, taking into account the contribution of women in the formal and informal sectors; Review national trade and entrepreneurship policies, to make them gender responsive; Introduce affirmative action measures to ensure that women benefit equally from economic opportunities, including those created through public procurement processes.
Trade and entrepreneurship
The country has entrepreneurship policies although they do not make specific reference to women. The Small Enterprise Promotion Agency (SEnPA), which is headed by a woman, has some very successful entrepreneurship programmes, in particular the cottage industry scheme. The agency’s programme covers all types of businesses and is presently promoting cottage industries, with women as their main target.
The Agency‘s work with entrepreneurs consists of: training in small business, financial support and after care support. According to their records, the Agency has generally assisted more women entrepreneurs than men.
There has been no review of trade, entrepreneurial and economic policies to make them gender responsive. There is no particular need for this as both sexes are treated equally.
Informal trade
There are two types of informal trade in Seychelles: • The cottage industries described above are considered as ‘informal’ for the following reasons: they are home-based and although done on a continuous basis there is only a minimal level of regulation and constraint. With such trades people need to apply for a permit to operate and need to fulfil some basic criteria at start-up. Once their ‘project’ has been approved, they can start operations straightaway, they do not pay taxes (if the earnings are below SR 250,000 per annum - equivalent of US $18,800) and they do not require licences. By 2008,
48 1,172 cottage and handicraft certificates had been issued and 66% of these were to female cottage industry operators1. The representative of SEnPA informed us that policy decisions regarding cottage industries were prepared specifically with women in mind. • Traders who operate on an ad hoc basis - selling fruits/vegetables/or home made goods by the roadside or at ‘fairs’ held on a weekly basis or for special occasions. This group is not regulated at all - but it should be noted that the weekly fairs are actually organized by official/established bodies, e.g. the Ministry of Tourism or the Catholic Church. Most of those operating in this group seem to be male - there are no specific statistics available.
No formal study has been undertaken on informal trade in the Seychelles. There might be internal documents in existence at SEnPA but these are not available for public consumption.
Woman making baskets Seychelles Photo: Loga Virahsawmy Introduction 059
Procurement
1 Activities of female headed cottage industries are in many cases those seen as related to women, for example sewing, craft, catering, fashion and apparel retail shops.
49 No affirmative action measures have been deemed necessary. Both men and women are treated equally when it comes to access to economic opportunities in the country. Therefore there are no targets that have been set.
Property and resources The SADC Protocol provides that by 2015 state parties shall review all policies and laws that determine access to, control of, and benefit from, productive resources by women.
The development bank and the Concessionary Credit Agency do not have gender-based preferences and there are no gender issues attached to the lending policy. There is no financial institution in the country that provides easy access to credit or finance specifically to women.
Women in Seychelles do not seem to encounter problems in accessing credit or other sources of financial services. In one of the leading banks in the country, 75% of borrowers of personal loans are female and 50% are borrowers for home financing and small businesses. This distribution is not unusual and is a clear indication that women are not marginalized by financial institutions. On the other hand, it should be noted that annual reports of banks tend not to give gender-disaggregated information.
Gender and land ownership
Table 22: Women ownership of different land types Type of Land % of women’s ownership Resettlement Farm land Communal Small holding Commercial land Source: Year
According to the country’s laws, land can be owned by males and females equally with no restrictions related to gender. Little information could be provided by the authority concerned on land ownership, and the information they hold is not gender- disaggregated. There is no gender provision in the country’s land policy.
Land provided by the state for farming is 600 hectares of the country’s surface and already 320 hectares have been allocated. There are 361 tenants and 39 of them are women (11%). The Agricultural Agency supports all farmers in getting access to financial or credit facilities and there are no gender preferences or implications. Nonetheless, there has been some sort of recognition of women’s role in food production and a seminar/workshop was conducted in 2008 focusing on the issue.
Employment The Protocol provides that by 2015, state parties shall review, amend and enact laws and policies that ensure women and men have equal access to wage employment in all sectors of the economy. It also provides for equal pay for equal work; eradication of occupational segregation; maternity and paternity benefits.
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Table 23: Women and men in employment (registered as at May 2009) No of No of men Total % women % men women Employed* 16,952 16,762 33,714 50.3 49.7 Unemployed** 785 574 1359 58 42 Self employed* 793 4050 4843 * Figures for the employed and the self employed are from the Population and Housing Census of 2002 - the only source that provides this kind of information. Figures for the self-employed have changed since the introduction of the cottage industries scheme in 2004 but it is not possible to know across the board how many are currently self- employed. The Social Security office has some records but it does not report on them nor makes them available to the public. ** Figures for the unemployed are for 2009, Department of Employment
In view of the fact that the above information is from different sources and from different years, it is not possible to compare and analyse them in a meaningful way. What can be said is that generally, the population of employed individuals is composed of about the same proportion of males and females.
Table 24: Employment levels of women and men across key occupations Labour Force Participation (15 and above) by Sector, 2005 (survey results) Female Male Total Female% Male% Primary 80 204 284 28 72 Secondary 201 413 614 33 67 Tertiary 683 442 1125 61 39 Total 964 1059 2023 48 52 Source: Labour Force Survey, 2005
Primary – Agricultural, fishery and related labourers, other labourers, market-oriented skilled agricultural and fishery workers. Secondary – Extraction and building trades workers, metal, machinery and related trades workers, precision, handicraft, printing and related trades workers, other craft and related workers, stationary-plant and related operators, machine operators and assemblers, drivers and mobile-plant operators, sales and service elementary occupations, armed forces. Tertiary – Legislators and senior officials, corporate managers, general managers, science professionals, life science and health professionals, teaching professionals, other professionals, other associate professionals, office clerks, customer service clerks, personal and protective service workers, models, salespersons and demonstrators.
The National Statistic Bureau does not have actual figures for employment. It has survey data regarding the labour force. It does not collect gender-based data on employment on a continuous basis. For the most recent Labour Force Survey (2005), numbers (because they are low) were aggregated according to primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. Percentages give an idea of participation by gender.
Employment categories that are women dominated are: goods and services, health and social activities, education and manufacturing. The lack of data makes it difficult to
51 make a proper analysis of this table. Nonetheless, from general knowledge we know that negative stereotyping for types of occupation are gradually being broken down, e.g. nursing is seeing more men employed in the sector; there are also more and more women being employed in the construction sector. Measures are being taken to ensure that occupational segregation and all forms of employment discrimination have been eliminated.
Fish market Seychelles Photo: Loga Virahsawmy B.Unusual Seychelles - By Loga (4)
Table 25: Conditions of employment Provision Yes/No Provisions Maternity leave Yes 12 weeks paid leave - 10 of which need to be taken after confinement and an additional 4 weeks paid leave to be taken before or after confinement. A female worker is not allowed to return to work before her paid leave is over. The Employment Act (1991, amended 1995) states that ‘an employer who permits or induces a female worker so to return is guilty of an offence’. Paternity leave No Sexual harassment Yes Night work Yes A female worker, from the time she is 6 months pregnant and up to 3 months after her confinement
52 shall not be employed on overtime work or at night between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. If a female worker produces a medical certificate that a change in the nature of her work or duties is necessary in the interest of her health or that of her child, she has the right to be transferred to other work or duties appropriate to her condition without loss of wages (Employment Act, Maternity Protection).
Same retirement age and Yes 63 years and a monthly pension of Seychelles benefits for women and men Rupees 2,100 (currently equivalent to US$ 157). Source: Employment Act, 1991 revised 1995
Workplace policies in the country are very gender responsive. The law also makes it possible for a charge of discrimination to be brought to the Employment Tribunal. According to the records of the Employment office there has only been 1 such case registered so far and the Tribunal found this charge not to be valid.
Skills development policies and programmes
The Seychelles have a number of skills development programmes which cover most sectors of activity. In 1994 a Centre for Skills Development was set up within the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs but its activities have since been passed on to other agencies/organizations and it no longer exists as a separate centre. The Department of Employment still has the Skills Acquisition Programme (SAP) which caters for participants of all ages and education levels - across a wide range of activities. So far the majority of the participants are women.
New programmes have recently been launched, for example, within the Seychelles Tourism Academy and the Seychelles Institute of Technology with a view to re-train individuals who either have taken voluntary departure or who have been made redundant during the recent economic reforms. A large number of individuals attending these programmes are women - but there are no reliable statistics.
Financial Institutions
Mainstream financial institutions treat financial and credit needs of both sexes in the same manner. There are eight (8) financial institutions that provide services to satisfy financial and credit needs. These institutions operate on a credit worthiness policy. It is the business proposal and the ability to refund a loan that will allow the promoter to have access to credit and financial support.
53 GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE Article 20-25
Extent of Gender-based violence The Protocol aim to reduce current levels of gender-based violence by half by 2015
Table 26: Gender violence statistics (as reported to the Police) No of reported rape cases in last year In 2008 there were 76 cases of sexual assault that were reported to the Police and only 25 reached court. No of rape cases that get withdrawn There were no reported withdrawals by the complainant in 2008. % rape cases withdrawn 0% Number of convictions There were no convictions of sexual assault in 2008. % conviction rate 0% Source: Gender Secretariat, 2008
Statistics regarding cases of GBV reported to the police are not disaggregated by age or sex. Figures show that only one third of reported cases reach court and that convictions of perpetrators are even harder to reach.
The table below shows the number of cases reported to Probation Services (which provides counselling or referral services). These figures clearly indicate that most cases are reported by females both in the case of self-referred clients as well as in the case of clients who are referred to Probation Services by the Family Tribunal.
Probation Services: Number of registered cases for January to August 2008 by sex
Self referred Family violence Total clients (reconciliation) Referrals No. % No. % No. % No. reported by 42 26.3 4 6.9 46 21.1 Males No. reported by 118 73.8 54 93.1 172 78.9 Females Total number of 160 100 58 100 218 100 registered cases Source: Probation Services, 2009
Response and support The SADC Protocol provides that by 2015 state parties shall: Enact and enforce legislation prohibiting all forms of gender-based violence; Ensure that laws on gender- based violence provide for the comprehensive testing, treatment and care of survivors of sexual assault; Review and reform their criminal laws and procedures applicable to cases of sexual offences and gender-based violence; Enact and adopt specific legislative provisions to prevent human trafficking and provide holistic services to the victims, with
54 the aim of re-integrating them into society; Enact legislative provisions, and adopt and implement policies, strategies and programmes which define and prohibit sexual harassment in all spheres, and provide deterrent sanctions for perpetrators of sexual harassment.
See comments in table 27.
International Women’s Day t-shirt Photo: Colleen Lowe Morna womdayhurtwoman.080904.clm
55 Table 27: GBV response and support Provisions What is in place What needs to be put in place Laws/ policies Legislation prohibiting all forms of GBV. According to the 1995 amendments of the Legislative changes are required to provide Penal Code, common assault, which better protection of boys against trafficking includes threats of violence, is punishable for the purposes of sex trade. Further by up to 2 years imprisonment, and assault legislative changes are still required to resulting in actual bodily harm is punishable provide better protection of victims of by up to 7 years imprisonment. In addition, domestic violence. Currently the law does not forced prostitution is recognized as a recognize domestic violence as a criminal criminal offence as well as abduction of offence and these incidents are dealt with as women and girls. In 1996 the Code was assault crimes under the Penal Code. amended to allow better protection of However, the reluctance of the Police to victims of gender-based violence; this intervene in these types of incidents, has led included the recognition of spousal rape many to suggest that the creation of a and sexual harassment as sexual assault specific piece of legislation to cover this crimes, punishable by up to 20 years particular form of assault ought to be imprisonment. pursued. Currently the Family Tribunal does not try cases of family violence but merely offers protection to its victims through restraint orders or the eviction of perpetrators from the family home (even if property is owned by the perpetrator) for a maximum period of two years. The Tribunal does actively encourage victims of domestic violence to report cases to the police, who will only be able to charge perpetrators for assault crimes, as defined above. Ensuring that all perpetrators of GBV The Family Tribunal was established in Independent monitoring mechanism. are brought to book. 1998 under the amended Children’s Act and Systematic training for professionals. administers the Family Violence (Protection of Victims) Act 2000, which came into force
56 Provisions What is in place What needs to be put in place in July 2000. The Act is comprehensive and sensitive to the protection of victims of family violence (actual or threatened violence), by providing them the right to appear in front of the Tribunal to register any complaint constituting family violence and apply for a protection order for up to 2 years on behalf of themselves, another family member and property. The Act empowers the Tribunal with the right to direct perpetrators to attend counselling and/or rehabilitation programmes, with a fine of up to R30,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 years if perpetrators are found to be in contempt of intentionally contravening orders. Comprehensive testing, treatment and Various Government agencies such as the -Sexual violence and abuse action plan care of survivors of sexual offences - probation services and NGO’S such as The -Plan for strengthening protection emergency contraception. Association for the Promotion of Solid and -More accessible support groups or Humane Families (APSHF) offer counselling mechanisms for victims services that depend almost entirely on the -Sexual assault referral centres proactiveness of the victim to seek help. Access to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Available/offered or by request depending for survivors of GBV. on circumstances. Prevention of sexually transmitted Availability of free condoms in health infections. centres. Free testing for and treatment of STDs at Centre for Disease Control Unit (CDCU). Social and psychological rehabilitation None so far although there have been Support group, counselling and structured of perpetrators of gender-based discussions regarding the establishment of rehabilitation for perpetrators to reintegrate violence? such a programme. (This was normally into society when sentence has
57 Provisions What is in place What needs to be put in place recommended by the 2002 Violence against been served. Women and Children in Seychelles - study funded by SADC). Review of criminal laws and procedures None Periodic reviews by independent body. on sexual offences and GBV to eliminate gender bias and ensure that justice and fairness are accorded to the survivor. Human trafficking Specific legislation to prevent human None Although this has not yet become a national trafficking. issue, legislation specifically aimed at making human trafficking illegal needs to be introduced. Government could also develop systems of co-operation between different law enforcement agencies and with NGOs. Mechanisms to eradicate national, None regional and international networks. Harmonised data collection on None Initially raising awareness amongst potential trafficking. victims; secondly, raising awareness amongst police, social workers and immigration officers. Capacity building, awareness raising None and sensitization campaigns on trafficking. Sexual harassment Adopt laws, policies, programmes that Section 135 of the Penal Code outlines Advocacy and sensitization programmes for define and prohibit sexual harassment. insulting the modesty of a person through decision-makers particularly in the judiciary words, sound or gesture as an offence and awareness programmes for members of liable to up to one year imprisonment. the public. Gender balance in bodies adjudicating No provisions sexual harassment cases.
58 Provisions What is in place What needs to be put in place Support services Cases on GBV to be heard in a gender No provisions sensitive environment. Special counselling services. The Association for the Promotion of Solid and Humane Families (APSHF) was established in 1995 under the umbrella of the Catholic Church. The Association has organised a series of relationship skills workshops on both Mahé and Praslin and provides counselling to empower couples to deal with domestic violence or empower individuals to escape abusive relationships. (It also runs district-based parenting skills programmes). Dedicated and sensitive services Partly - Social Services works with APSHF Programme to identify individuals in the provided by police units; health; social and the Probation Services to provide Police and the Ministry of Health (with the welfare. counselling and support services to victims, right profile) who would be trained to deal where possible. with victims of GBV. Accessible information on services No Informational material of where to go, what available to survivors of gender-based to do, etc in cases of actual or possible GBV. violence. Accessible, affordable and specialized Partly. There are accessible and affordable legal services including legal aid to (free) legal services to victims of GBV. survivors of gender-based violence. There are no specialized services though. Specialised facilities, including support No A centre that would cater to the needs of mechanisms, for survivors of GBV. victims of GBV at various levels. Rehabilitation and reintegration No A centre that would cater to the needs of facilities for survivors of GBV. victims of GBV at various levels. Training of service providers Gender sensitisation training for all Provisions are made for training in the A committee to organize activities and service providers engaged in the National Strategy on Domestic Violence. implement this project. Members of this
59 Provisions What is in place What needs to be put in place administration of justice, such as committee would be selected on the basis of judicial officers, prosecutors, police, their commitment to this issue as shown in prison, welfare and health officials? their track record. Community sensitization programmes None Advocacy and sensitization programmes for for survivors of gender-based violence. NGOs and communities. Formal training programmes for service None A formal training programme at a relevant providers. recognized institution, e.g. National Institute of Health and Social Studies. Source: Interviews with different stakeholders
60 Prevention
According to common belief, the fact that gender equality should be maintained is almost a given in Seychellois culture, therefore there is rarely an explicit reference to it. However, it is indirectly stated in other statements such as “Every Seychellois should enjoy social protection and be empowered to participate in the development of Seychelles and share in the prosperity of such development” (SPPF 2006 Manifesto, p.8).
There has been some training done by GEMPlus (the local chapter of Gender Links) but it cannot be stated that there has been change over the past year regarding media’s attitude and approach towards coverage of gender violence. The media people who attend such training are not usually the ones who make the final decisions as to what goes on the air or in print. There has also been no opinion surveys carried out of public attitudes towards gender violence.
There are no major gender awareness programmes that have been instituted either by Government or by civil society. There are only occasional events. During the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence in 2008, activities by the Ministry of Health and Social Development included production and national dissemination of leaflets on domestic violence statistics, collaboration in partner workshops, and production of a series of Nation (main newspaper) articles during the campaign and re-broadcasting of domestic violence TV spots. No direct assessment of the effect of this campaign has been conducted. It cannot be said that the Sixteen Day campaign has been elevated to a 365 Day campaign.
Awareness of domestic violence generally is high and the study conducted by the Ministry of Health and Social Development in 2006 found that 95% of women and 92% of men sampled were aware of the meaning of domestic violence. The same study also found that 92% men and 94% women believed it is not acceptable to use intimidation when making a point in an argument, 99% of both sexes believed it is not acceptable to use physical violence when making a point in an argument, and 97% men and 99% women believed it is not acceptable to force sex on an unwilling partner.
Exchanges of national, regional and international best practices occur only within the framework of regional research exercises sponsored by regional organizations, e.g. SADC and Indian Ocean Commission.
Integrated approaches The SADC Protocol on Gender and Development calls on states to adopt integrated approaches, including institutional cross sector structures, with the aim of reducing current levels of gender-based violence by 2015.
• Does your country have a National Action Plan to End Gender Violence or strategy is available in your country to curb all forms of gender-based violence? Yes • Has the National Action Plan been adopted? Yes
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The National Strategy on Domestic Violence (2008) was drafted by the national gender secretariat and validated by a wide range of stakeholders. It was then approved by the cabinet of ministers. No formal structures have yet been established to implement the strategy but contacts have been made with donor organizations and some projects have been submitted for funding.
The SADC protocol has been signed but has not yet been ratified.
As an island country located 1,000 miles from any other country, it is difficult and relatively expensive for people from other SADC countries to move easily to and from the Seychelles. Entry points into the country are limited to the port and airport and these are strictly controlled. Nonetheless, as Seychelles prepares to join SADC’s proposed free trade area (FTA), it has started carrying out a comprehensive stock-taking exercise to prevent any negative impact on, among other things, gender. It is clear that a number of policies and regulations need to be updated in view of the new circumstances.
Budgetary allocations
It was not possible to get information about allocations that have been made for addressing gender violence. In addition, there have been no studies in the Seychelles on such budgetary allocations.
62 HEALTH, HIV AND AIDS Article 26-27 The Protocol provides for state parties to by 2015, adopt and implement legislative frameworks, policies, programmes and services to enhance gender sensitive, appropriate and affordable quality health care; reduce the maternal mortality ratio by 75% and ensure the provision of hygiene and sanitary facilities.
Table 28: Key sexual, reproductive and health indicators Indicator Country statistic/policy Comment Current maternal mortality rate 64 per 100, 000 live births 2005: 1 death out of 1536 (Lifetime Chance of Death from births Maternal Causes (1 in how many) 2006 – No deaths recorded 2007 – No deaths recorded 2008: 1 recorded death out of 1546 live births % Births attended by Skilled 100% All deliveries in Seychelles Personnel occur in health facilities except in rare cases where the birth occurs before the mother has reached hospital. % Contraceptive use among CPR in age group 15-49 is 44.1% CPR calculated for broader sexually active women 20-24 age group. % Contraceptive use among Data not available Many women cohabit. In married women fact the majority of births occur to non-married women who are cohabiting. No of deaths annually as a result Nil of illegal abortions Country policy on abortion Termination of Pregnancy Act Abortions not approved by which controls criteria and termination of Pregnancy approval for abortion in Board are considered illegal. Seychelles. Total coverage of sanitation Households with: facilities • Electricity - 96% • Treated water supply - 87% • Flushed toilet - 94% (Source: 2002 census) Urban coverage No significant difference in urban and rural settings in terms of access to basic amenities. There are no official demarcations for urban and rural regions. Rural Coverage See comments for urban coverage. Source: Department of Health, 2009
63 Graph 11: Maternal mortality rate per 100 000
Maternal mortality rate per 100 000
1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0
la ia e a s s o ho we u car c e u g t b iq s ll iti n DRC a mb b a fri e r A Malawi eso Za m g A ch L imb a Namibia y Tanzania d Botswana Mau Z Swaziland a outh Se Moza M S
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
As highlighted in the graph above, the maternal mortality rate in the Seychelles is highly favourable compared to the other countries in the SADC region.
General
The reproductive health programme responds to both female and male needs although male involvement remains quite low. No gender disparity exists in accessing basic sanitation facilities. To its credit, compared to the region, Seychelles ranks first in sanitation facilities coverage within the country.
Graph 12: Percentage total coverage of sanitation facilities
% Total coverage of sanitation facilities
120
100 100 100
80
60 59 Total coverage of sanitation 60 52 50 50 facilities 49 47 46 35 40 33 31 31
20 14
0 bia ibia DRC alawi bique babwe am M Angola auritius Zam Lesotho N Tanzania M Zi m Swaziland adagascar Botswana ozam Seychelles South Africa M M Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Family Planning/contraceptive usage
64
Policy on Reproductive Health is being formulated currently and has taken into account the needs of both males and females in the population. Increasingly, the Seychelles is moving to involve and target males within programmes – health promotion activities and campaigns now focus on male issues and attempt to raise awareness of early detection of problems in men.
Oral, hormonal contraceptives are the most commonly used contraceptive method by women aged 20-39 years of age. Unfortunately, Family Planning (FP) clinics do not gather socio-demographic information about users. Female condoms are available within FP services although usage remains low; they are promoted within FP services along with HIV/AIDS sensitization done nationally. Other contraceptives are also promoted through FP services. There is also the dissemination of IEC materials through clinics and the Youth Health Centre and through media campaigns nationally.
Box three: Termination of Pregnancy
While this issue is not provided for in the Protocol, such debates are mounting in many countries and they are often revealing.
In Seychelles, termination of pregnancy is regulated under the Termination of Pregnancy (ToP) Act 1994 which only allows for termination up to the twelfth week of gestation on health grounds as determined by three medical practitioners who sit on the Board.
All requests for termination of pregnancy have to be approved by the ToP Board. Even though statistics indicate that the total number of terminations approved by the board is generally decreasing, the total number of abortions has continued to grow. Statistics also show that this is a particularly serious problem affecting girls and young women aged less than 24 years of age - incomplete and septic abortions represented 61% of the total number of all abortions conducted on female patients in this age group in 2005. The high proportion of incomplete and septic abortions in proportion to the ToP abortions indicates that there may be a high incidence of illegal abortions - many requiring hospital aftercare or emergency treatment (Gender Secretariat, 2007).
There is no hard data regarding the number of illegal abortions that take place in any given year; on the other hand there are numerous anecdotes which also report the use of various methods: use of concoctions made from boiling a combination of local plants or more frequently now, pills that provoke contractions thus causing an abortion. Regarding the position of women’s organisations on abortions, most of the NGOs tend to support the official position. However, two NGOs stated that rules needed to be revised in view of the high number of unsafe abortions being discovered by the health services - indicating that there are many others which never get to be known. One women’s NGO affiliated to the Roman Catholic Church exists to defend the right to life of a foetus (Brû- Rosalie, 2008).
The issue has not been widely discussed and there has been no widespread public debate about this.
65 HIV and AIDS Article 27
General
As indicated in the graph below, the Seychelles has low levels in the population of infection of HIV compared to countries within the SADC region.
Graph 13: Percentage population infected by HIV
% population infected by HIV
30 26 24 25 23 20 18 15 15 15 13 15 12 11 10 6 4 5 3 22 0 i a a ia s w RC ius land a gol t sotho n D swana amibiaZambi Mal A ot Le th AfricaN imbabwe anzan B u T Mauri Swazi Z Seychelle So Mozambique Madagascar
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Within the population that is infected, the Seychelles is one of 2 countries in the SADC region that has more men infected than women.
Graph 14: Proportion of women and men infected by HIV
Proportion of women and men infected by HIV
90 81 80 68 70 61 60 60 60 58 58 58 58 57 57 57 55 58 60 45 50 39 40 40 40 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 42 % women 40 32 % men 30 19 20 10 0
a e i a a o u C w n d i us ibi th R rica n lles ti iq D la a a an e ri m so b a Af z u a Angola e m M tsw Zambia n a N L a imbabwe o a z B T M o Z outh Swazil Seych M Madagascar S
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
66 Table 29: Key Gender, HIV and AIDS indicators % women % men Extent of comprehensive knowledge No data currently - KAP study to be on HIV and AIDS KAP study to be undertaken soon undertaken soon Cumulative HIV/AIDS infection (1987- 42.3% 57.6% 2009) Voluntary Counselling and Testing Available to all Available to all On ARV treatment 48% 52% HIV positive pregnant women 99.9 – Seychelles receiving PMTC has had 64 positive pregnancies so far Source: MoHSD, 2009 Note 1: KAP - Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Note 2: The percentage for cumulative HIV/AIDS represents the number of cases by sex out of total detected so far.
Currently data is inadequate to show that gender gaps exist. However, services are equally accessible to all. It can be argued that women in general have a slightly increased advantage in accessing services as most of the health services, e.g. ante-natal services, mother and child health programmes, all target women. Despite women being offered the tests during pregnancy, their partners are not.
Prevention The Protocol requires that by 2015 state parties shall develop gender sensitive strategies to prevent new infections, taking account of the unequal status of women, and in particular the vulnerability of the girl child as well as harmful practices and biological factors that result in women constituting the majority of those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.
The Seychelles has a national HIV and AIDS policy that was formulated in 2000. Services for treatment and testing are equally available to all and prevention programmes target all sexes. In addition, as indicated in the graph below, compared to the region, the Seychelles appears to have a population reasonably well informed about HIV/AIDS (Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009).
Graph 15: Extent of comprehensive knowledge on HIV/AIDS
Extent of comprehensive knowledge on HIV and AIDS
100 90 80 70 60 % women 50 40 % men 30 20 10 0 i s ia d a e ia r u es we n ni w b ca l a la RC gola mib z biqu sotho as D n auriti a n m Ma Zam e A N ychel imbab L ag M e Ta Botswana S Z Swazila ad South Africa Moza M
67 PMTCT
There is a comprehensive policy that ensures that all pregnant women have access to voluntary counselling and testing for HIV/AIDS in order to prevent mother to child transmission. Women are offered the test twice during their pregnancy. All those who test positive are offered treatment. So far, compliance has been excellent - at 99.9% (see graph below for the favourable position the Seychelles has in this regard compared to other countries in the region). The HIV/AIDS policy looks at all needs for treatment and close follow-up. Social services assist when there are social and financial needs.
Graph 16: Percentage pregnant women on PMTCT
Percentage pregnant women on PMTC
120 100 99 95 95 100 75 72 80 67 64 60 50 39 40 28 14 14 10 20 4 0
r i a s a e a a e a a tiu ibi w ol lles ana i otho law DRC he w s Afric biqu ng ts aur am e A Ma nzani N L Zambi am a dagasc Bo M T a Seyc Zimbab Swazilandouth M S Moz
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
Treatment The Protocol calls on state parties to ensure universal access to HIV and AIDS treatment for infected women, men, boys and girls
The policy regarding HIV and AIDS treatment states universal access only. The PMTCT program being implemented targets women and children. There is no gender gap in access to treatment. Treatment is freely accessible to all, however, late presentation of cases can make treatment difficult. Stigma is still widespread within the community contributing to late presentation at times. Currently 5% of cases show resistance to treatment.
The sustainability of funds for ARVs is a major challenge - at present the government spends around Rs5million per year on treatment and on investigations carried out for HIV/AIDS patients in the Seychelles.
68 Gender and Media Baseline Study
The key findings of the research can be summarised as follows:
• Women’s views and voices are grossly under-represented in the Seychelles media: If unknown sources are excluded, women constitute only 21 percent of the sources in the media monitored and this figure is representative for both the print and electronic media. This is slightly higher than the regional average of 17 percent and the global average of 18 percent.
• Best and worst performers: The newspaper People has the highest number of women sources (41 percent) and Seychelles Weekly the lowest (eight percent).
• But there are no significant differences between private and public (state controlled) media: None of the media give women the majority of voices, although Regar and People which are both private newspapers, do better than the state-owned at 11 percent and 41 percent respectively compared to Seychelles Weekly (state-owned) at eight percent and Seychelles Nation (state- owned) at 18 percent.
• Women in the media still carry their private identify more than men: Although, as in the region, women in the media still carry their private identity more than does men, Seychelles fares better than the region with only three percent women and one percent men compared with the regional average of 11 percent for women and two percent for men.
• Older women, more than older men, are virtually invisible: To the extent that women’s voices are accessed, they are likely to be in the 20-34 and 35-49 year bracket for both print and electronic media. Men in the 35-49 years bracket are a dominant voice in the Seychelles media.
• Women in certain occupational categories are virtually silent: The occupational categories in which female views dominate are beauty contestants at 100 percent, home-makers at 100 percent, office and service workers at 90 percent, social sciences at 63 percent, and students at 67 percent. Women are silent as activists, in agriculture, in business, as politicians and in religion.
• Gender equality is newsworthy: Contrary to the regional findings, gender equality is newsworthy in Seychelles. Fifty percent of sources on gender equality and gender violence were both men and women.
• Men’s voices dominate in all the hard news categories: Women constituted less than 14 percent of the news sources in economics and politics.
69
• The highest level of representation of women in the Seychelles media is as reporters and presenters: Women constitute 64 percent of reporters in the print media and 57 percent in the electronic media.
• But they have to be young! While women constitute the majority of presenters in the electronic media in Seychelles, they are concentrated in the 20- 34 year age bracket. Men and women are equal in the age bracket of 35-49 at 25 percent while they are not present at all in the 50-64 year age group.
• Women in the print media: Although, journalists writing newspaper articles are classified as unknown as their articles do not carry their by-lines, local statistics show that women journalists dominate the print media. Their high representation, however, is not reflected in the quality of the stories in the newspapers.
• The majority of stories suffer from “gender blindness”: Other than “sins of commission” the main finding of the qualitative research is that stories suffer from the “sins of omission” – story opportunities that are lost through failing to explore the gender dimensions of everyday situations. Journalists are merely reporting on issues instead of adopting a more investigative approach, which brings out amongst other things the gender aspect of any given news item.
It needs to be highlighted that although there are many women represented in media houses as seen in the first graph below, these women are not in high levels of management (as seen in the second graph below); Seychelles thus ranks below average when compared to other countries in the region.
Graph 9: Women and men in Southern Africa media houses
70 Graph 10: Women and men on senior management in media houses Southern Africa
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
However, the Seychelles improves its ranking substantially with regards to women sources in the media; it ranks second in the region by comparison (see graph below).
Graph 11: Women sources in all countries, regional and global studies
30% 26% 26% 25% 25%24% 24% 25% 21% 21% 22% 22% 19% 19%19% 20% 18% 17% 16% 17% 17%17%16%16% 17%17% 15% 15%15% REG STUDIES 15% 13% 13% 13%12% GLOBAL STUDY 10%
5%
0%
r a e s e i la o d u C ia w o lles ca n iu R ional g e oth ila bw it ana D n as mibia z a ur w eg A es a a a mbiq Zamb Mala R ych L ag th AfricN a e d u M TanzaniaBots S Sw Zimb Ma So Moz
Source: Gender Links Regional Barometer Report, 2009
71 IMPLEMENTATION Article 32 -36
Signing
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for ensuring that the government signs and ratifies international protocols. The SADC Protocol was signed in 2008 by the Seychelles.
Ratification
The ratification process can be rather lengthy. The relevant Ministry submits a proposal to the Cabinet of Ministers, the Cabinet approves and afterwards the President assents. The proposal is then forwarded to the National Assembly where it is presented, debated and voted on. Thereafter, the decision is passed back to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who registers the proposal as having been ratified.
The Seychelles Gender Commission (formerly the Seychelles Women’s Commission,) which is a grouping of 10 women’s NGOs, could not inform the researcher on specific actions being undertaken to advance the Protocol. However, information was given about the activities of some of the NGOs in areas that are part of the Protocol, such as governance, HIV/AIDS, education and training.
Implementation mechanisms and processes
Table 30: National gender machinery and processes Component Yes /No Comments National Gender Policy No Gender ministry No A gender secretariat exists within the Department of Social Development - 3 staff members. Gender focal points in all line Yes - in most cases departments Gender structure in parliament No Active collaboration with civil Yes society Plan for domestication/ The Gender Secretariat is popularisation of the Protocol? currently working on the cabinet memorandum on the SADC Protocol. National action plans with Cabinet memorandum being measurable time frames prepared. Analysis of baseline data against Cabinet memorandum being which a report will have to be prepared. submitted in 2010 Preparedness for first report next According to the Ministry this will year depend on the type or depth of information required.
72 The Seychelles is still in the process of ratifying the SADC Protocol. Having said this, the country is doing quite well in terms of meeting most of the targets within the Protocol. One area that poses a major challenge is the issue of parity and the 50/50 targets. Consequently, considerably more advocacy needs to be done at all levels.
CONCLUSIONS
As shown above, in some areas the gaps are not large, while in others they are considerable. Seychelles is doing well in providing equal access and opportunity in education and in health services. The business environment is also quite welcoming to women. However, the issue of parity at decision-making level is far from being reached and there are no national policies in place to support such objectives. There are other national policies, such as the one for GBV, that are still ideas and concepts on paper without much active implementation. Much work needs to be done and resources need to be found to apply the activities recommended in these strategies.
While there are commitments made in documents, it is not always easy to gauge how serious individuals in decision-making positions and within organisations are about gender. Despite nearly 15 years of work on gender at national level, there are no serious efforts being made to ensure that there is gender-disaggregated data in areas that are vital to the development of the country. There are no monitoring and evaluation frameworks and implementation tends to be piecemeal. Fortunately, it appears women in Seychelles face virtually no overt discrimination.
The National Gender Secretariat (2008) has the following to claim on the matter, “Gender related problems persist because equality in higher strategic needs have not yet been achieved between the genders. This has resulted in the fact that the condition of women and men have changed, i.e. economically active and educated, but their position has not. A symptom of this is the high prevalence of domestic violence, even amongst highly educated and wealthy women. This is because sustainable empowerment is facilitated by not only the provision of equal rights in public life but also equal rights in private life, necessitating a change in the beliefs and attitudes of every individual. Otherwise, we will fail to effectively address the underlying root causes of these gender related problems and continue to put our efforts and resources into addressing their symptoms.”
It is not yet possible to state what the key next steps are except that these will be defined after the Protocol has been ratified.
73 ANNEX A: LIST OF DOCUMENTS ACCESSED AND SUBMITTED
Document Accessed and reviewed Copy of document Country Constitution Yes Sent Model legislation on any article Yes Sent Gender Policy N/A HIV and AIDS Policy Yes To be sent Trade Policies Entrepreneur Policies Procurement Policies Health Policies Yes Sent Labour Policies Yes Sent Education Policies Yes To be sent Economic Policy Yes Sent Micro finance policy/ charter Yes Land Policy Skills Development Policy Trafficking law / policy Yes UN documentation All legislation – GBV, AA, Yes (GBV) Sent Election related data – reports Yes on election results, voter registration lists, amongst others.
NB: Please use this as a checklist and provide a detailed bibliography at the end of your report using the format in the editorial guidelines attached to the briefing document.
74 ANNEX B: LIST OF INTERVIEWS
Name Designation E Mail Cell phone Land line Fax Tessa Siu Senior research [email protected] 281500 officer, Gender Secretariat Michelle Research officer more4michelle@hotm 281500 Marguerite Social ail.com Development Department Lindy Nancy Probation Officer 712558 281500 Nady Marie Senior [email protected] 563442 283500 Economist, Foreign Affairs Peggy Reproductive [email protected] 388347 Azemia Health Programme Manager Juliette Director Family [email protected] 388144 Henderson Health and Nutrition Rosie AIDS [email protected] 388122 Bistoquet Programme Manager Dr Anne Chief Medical [email protected] 388007 Gabriel Officer – Community Care Fiona Director General 283283 Ernesta Technical and Further Education Merida Director General meridadelcy@hotmail. 283283 Delcy for School com Ivy Edmond Programme 284900 Coordinator for Women, SPPF Regina Gender Officer 775207 413448 Alcindor SNP George Bibi Secretary 611752 General DP Wavel Leader SNP 224124 Ramkalawan Veronique Curator SPPF 284900 Adeline Archives Micheline Employment 676250 Bamboche Officer Michel Mellie Principal [email protected] 611650 Statistician, NSB
75 Louis Marketing 323151 Loizeau Manager, SEnPA Michel Senior Officer, 323151 Figaro SEnPA Ms. Sanders Employment 676250 Officer, Industrial Relations Marc Auditor General 610360 Benstrong William Director, 383838 Zarine Business Retail Mary Auditor, DBS 294400 Decomarmo nd Linetta Director, 611482 Joubert Agricultural Agency Michelle Principal [email protected] 383000 Fock-Yune Management Audit Officer, DPA Marie-Nella Chair, Gender 225376 Azemia Commission
76 References
Albert, M.C. (2005) Underperformance of Boys in Secondary Schools: Extent, Reasons and Strategies. MBA Dissertation in Educational Leadership (International) of the University of Lincoln
Brû-Rosalie, J. (2008) National Gender Report for the Elaboration of a sub-regional IOC Gender Strategy. Study commissioned by IOC/UNDP. Victoria, Seychelles Gender Secretariat (2008) National Strategy on Domestic Violence 2008-2012. Ministry of Health and Social Development, Social Development Department, Social Development Policy Division. Victoria, Seychelles
Gender Secretariat (2007) AU Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa: Consideration of reports submitted by state parties under operative paragraph 12 of the Declaration. Seychelles Initial Report Due in 2006. Ministry of Health and Social Development. Victoria, Seychelles
Government of Seychelles (1991) Laws of Seychelles: Penal Code. CAP 158. Victoria, Seychelles
Leste, A., Valentin J., Hoareau F. (2005) The SACMEQ II Project in Seychelles: A Study of the Conditions of Schooling and the Quality of Education. SACMEQ, Harare, Zimbabwe and Seychelles Ministry of Education and Youth
MISD (2004) National Population & Housing Census 2002. Victoria, Seychelles
Ministry of Education and Youth (2002a) Gender Differences in Educational Achievement of Boys and Girls in Primary Schools in Seychelles. Victoria, Seychelles
Ministry of Education and Youth (2002) Plan of Action for Gender Equality in Education 2002-2015. Victoria, Seychelles
Ministry of Health (2001) National Policy for Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS/STIs. AIDS Prevention and Control Programme. Victoria, Seychelles
Ministry of Social Affairs and Manpower Devlopment (2000) Progress Report of the Committee for Harmonisation of Laws Concerning Children in Seychelles. Victoria, Seychelles
NSB (2007) 2005 Labour Force Survey. Victoria, Seychelles
Pardiwalla, M. (2008), Progress Report on Integrating Gender into School and Classroom Processes In Seychelles. Report submitted to the Commonwealth Secretariat
Republic of Seychelles (2007) Seychelles Strategy 2017. Victoria, Seychelles
Republic of Seychelles (1994) Laws of Seychelles: Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles. CAP 42. Victoria, Seychelles
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Republic of Seychelles (1991) Employment Act, 1990 (Act 9 of 1990). Victoria, Seychelles
Seychelles Institute of Management (2001) National Report Seychelles: Prevention and Eradication of Violence against Women and Children. A study commissioned and funded by SADC. Victoria, Seychelles
Social Development Division (2003) Ten-Year Review and Appraisal of the Dakar/Ngor Declaration and the ICPD +10 Programme of Action. Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. Victoria, Seychelles
SPPF (2006) Manifesto: En Leker pou tou Seselwa. Victoria, Seychelles
United Nations (2009) Seychelles Common Country Assessment 2007
78