European Union Ambassador to Seychelles Vincent Degert ‘Combating domestic violence to preserve a fundamental human right’ |30 May 2020

Ambassador Degert

The Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Seychelles Vincent Degert has commended Seychelles and welcomed the approval of the Domestic Violence Bill by the National Assembly.

Based in Mauritius, Ambassador had this to say following the approval of the bill.

“The adoption of the Domestic Violence Bill marks an important turning point in the fight against violence on women. It provides the legal basis for defining different forms of violence and criminalises the acts of domestic violence – and this is an essential step to stop this horrific act of violence against women. For the European Union (EU), elimination of all forms of discrimination, harassment and violence against women are fundamental human rights. This is why the European Union is very pleased with the support it is currently providing to the first-ever shelter for battered women in Seychelles. The EU is also pleased of the government’s announced decision to construct a permanent shelter for women.

“Violence against women is violence against the entire society. Therefore, it is the responsibility of each and every one to say no to violence and to protect women. The EU, in partnership with the United Nations (UN), has therefore launched a worldwide ‘Spotlight’ initiative to raise awareness and develop instruments and legislation to tackle this evil.

“Gender equality is a priority of the partnership of the EU with the Republic of Seychelles and a key topic on the agenda of the annual political dialogue with both government and civil society. The shelter funded by the EU since 2018 provides a safe place for battered women. Women also receive medical assistance, legal advice and counselling there.

“During the COVID-related confinement, for example, the shelter operated with full capacity, protecting women from perpetrators with whom they were forcibly locked down.

“The shelter project is implemented by the Civil Engagement Platform Seychelles 9Ceps). Given the gap in the legislation on issues concerning domestic violence, the finalisation of the Domestic Violence Bill was one of the priorities of the project, for which several consultations were held with all stakeholders.”

Press release from the office of the EU ambassador to Seychelles