Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles E. Fonseka, warmly welcomed the newly accredited Ambassador of France to Seychelles, H.E. Anne Tallineau during a courtesy call yesterday.
Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Seychelles and France, particularly in the areas of maritime security, exchange programmes, and exploring new avenues for cooperation.
The meeting also highlighted the strong partnership between the Seychelles police and Frances' National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN), based in Reunion, which continues to provide advanced tactical, crisis management and counter-terrorism training to the Quick Response Team (QRT). These regular exercises further enhance operational readiness and collaboration between both forces.
The meeting also reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to work together in advancing mutual interests and enhancing collaboration in areas under the Ministry’s portfolio.
The Government of Seychelles proudly announces that once again Seychelles has been ranked Tier 1 in the 2025 United States Department of State Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report. This marks the third consecutive year Seychelles has achieved the highest ranking, underscoring the nation’s steadfast commitment to protecting human rights and combating human trafficking in all its forms.
This recognition reflects Seychelles’ proactive and sustained actions to strengthen its national response to trafficking in persons. In advance of the 2025 report, the Government addressed several key recommendations made in earlier assessments, including:
· Providing translators and interpretation services to ensure foreign victims have equal access to justice and protection.
· Establishing a multi-agency task force, composed of Immigration, Employment, and Police officials, which has significantly increased routine inspections to detect and deter trafficking.
· Strengthening coordination between agencies to improve victim protection and streamline prosecution processes.
· Delivering comprehensive training to over 100 social workers, mental health professionals, and frontline officers to better equip them in identifying and assisting victims.
· Introducing exemptions to remove the required fee for migrant workers filing complaints with the Labour Tribunal, thereby improving access to justice.
· Allocating dedicated police and Attorney General’s units to vigorously investigate and prosecute trafficking crimes.
· As of 2025, providing new government funding for victim services, ensuring sustainable resources for long-term support.
In 2024 and2025, Seychelles also recorded a rise in cases involving Seychellois victims of trafficking. Dedicated resources have been allocated to ensure their well-being and protection. This development highlights that trafficking in persons is not a crime affecting only foreign nationals but also one that threatens Seychellois citizens cementing the Government’s determination to safeguard all members of its society.
Alongside these measures, Seychelles is nearing completion of important legislative reforms, including amendments to existing immigration and employment laws as well as the introduction of the forthcoming Smuggling of Migrants Bill. These measures will further reinforce the country’s legal framework, ensuring both stronger safeguards for potential victims and stricter accountability for traffickers.
The Government extends its sincere appreciation to the Trafficking In Persons (TIP) Secretariat, as well as to its dedicated national and international partners, whose collaboration has been vital in achieving this standard for the third year in a row.
Director of Trafficking in Persons, Ms. Michelle Sabury, stated:
“Tier 1 status is not perfection nor a final destination; it is proof of accountability and progress in our daily commitment to protect, prevent, pursue justice, and strengthen partnerships. This recognition is the result of tireless teamwork and I extend heartfelt thanks to all stakeholders, government agencies, civil society, international partners and frontline officers whose dedication has made this achievement possible.”
Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka, emphasized:
“This recognition is a proud moment for Seychelles and a testament to our collective determination to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. We remain fully committed to ensuring that the fight against human trafficking continues to be a national priority, guided by strong laws, effective enforcement and the spirit of partnership.”
Seychelles reaffirms its determination to build on this success, sustaining efforts in prevention, protection and prosecution to ensure the country remains a safe and resilient society against human trafficking.To see the full report please click the following: https://www.state.gov/.../2025-trafficking-in.../seychelles/
As part of Prison Week, the Seychelles Prison Service held a special ceremony to recognise officers who go above and beyond in serving our nation.
From outstanding achievements in academics, physical training and drill, to unwavering dedication on duty our officers were celebrated for their professionalism, discipline, and integrity.
Highlights included:
Inspector Ivan Nicholas – Overall Best Performer & recipient of the Commissioner’s Cup
Inspector Peggy Labiche – Best in Academic Achievement
Sergeant Tony-Joe Juliette – Best in Practical Training
Corporal Aubrey Zoe – Best in Drill Training
A total of 90 officers also received certificates for exemplary service, reflecting this year’s theme: “It is in our hands.”
In his address, Minister Charles Fonseka commended the leadership of the Seychelles Prison Service under the stewardship of the Commissioner and her team, highlighting their unwavering commitment to reform, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
He noted the significant achievements of the SPS, from expanding prison facilities and healthcare services to implementing innovative rehabilitation programmes such as the Phoenix initiatives. The integration of faith-based programmes, vocational training, and partnerships with NGOs and other ministries was praised as a holistic vision that restores dignity and purpose to those in custody.
The ceremony also featured a parade and the unveiling of portraits to honour former superintendents for their years of service.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs extends its congratulations to all officers of the Seychelles Prison Service for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.
The Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka, warmly welcomed the U.S. Ambassador to Seychelles, H.E. Henry Jardine, for a courtesy call.
The meeting highlighted the strong friendship between our two nations, with discussions on boosting cooperation in areas such as anti-trafficking training, maritime security across the Western Indian Ocean, and wider training opportunities for Seychellois.
The United States continues to be a valued and trusted partner as we work together for a safer and stronger future. Ambassador Jardine was accompanied by Mr. Austin Lewis, Political and Economic Deputy Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Seychelles.
The meeting was also attended by Heads of Departments from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
On Monday, 1st September 2025, the Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Errol Fonseka, had the honour of receiving H.E. Mrs. Olivia Berkely-Christmann, Ambassador of the Republic of France to Seychelles, for a farewell courtesy call.
Minister Fonseka expressed heartfelt appreciation for the longstanding support of the French Government, highlighting the excellent collaboration between our two nations and the impactful training opportunities provided by France that have greatly benefited Seychelles.
Also present were representatives from key departments under the Ministry: Seychelles Prison Service (SPS), Seychelles Fire & Rescue Services Agency (SFRSA), Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD), and Immigration and Civil Status (ICS).
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with France in areas of mutual interest and looks forward to working closely with the incoming ambassador to advance ongoing initiatives and deepen bilateral ties.
We extend our best wishes to Ambassador Berkely-Christmann for continued success and thank her for her dedication to fostering strong relations between Seychelles and France.
Yesterday, the Minister of Internal Affairs Charles Fonseka received a courtesy call from the newly accredited Designated High Commissioner of the Republic of India to the Republic of Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Rohit Rathish.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to reaffirm the longstanding ties of friendship and cooperation between Seychelles and India. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, exploring opportunities for capacity building, and enhancing collaboration across the wide portfolio of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Both parties acknowledged the importance of continued partnership in key areas of mutual interest and expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
The meeting was also attended by the Principal Secretary for Immigration and Civil Status, Mr. Allain Volcère, and the Vice Chairperson of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Committee (NCCC), Sgt. Jerrold Morel.
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr. Charles Fonseka, held a courtesy call with representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
Discussions focused on ongoing and future projects between UNODC and Seychelles, including the feasibility of establishing a Regional Drug Observatory (RDO). The meeting highlighted the importance of a coordinated regional response to transnational crime, with Seychelles reaffirming its leadership role and strong commitment to addressing these challenges.
Minister Fonseka emphasized the far-reaching effects of transnational crimes not only on the region but globally, and reiterated the Government’s commitment to investing in the right infrastructures to safeguard national and regional security.
Major Gerald Wong-Pool, Director of the National Information Sharing & Coordination Centre (NISCC) and Regional Fusion and Law Enforcement Centre for Safety and Security at Sea (Reflecs3) highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts and the continued commitment of Seychelles to play an active role in regional initiatives against transnational crime.
Sgt. Jerrold Morel, Vice Chairperson of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Committee(NCCC), also emphasized the Government’s investment in cyber security, underlining its importance in strengthening resilience against evolving threats.
The United States and UNODC Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP) were recognized for their continued support in delivering maritime capacity-building initiatives. The establishment Centre of Excellence further demonstrates the US’s dedication and UNODC’s expertise in materializing initiatives of regional impact.
The meeting was attended by Mrs. Shah-Faure, Executive Director of the Ministers Secretariat, alongside Ms. Merideth Manella from the U.S. INL, and Mr. Rodrigo Contreras Cardona, Ms. Toral Vadgama, and Ms. Pooja Bissonauthsing from UNODC.
- Official Launch of the Seychelles Centre of Excellence
- Standing Strong Against Trafficking
- Message from the Minister of Internal Affairs On the Occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. 30th July, 2025
- Courtesy Call from High Commissioner-Designate of Bangladesh
- Courtesy Call from U.S. Navy Delegation