92002E0361

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0361/02

by Graham Watson (ELDR) to the Commission

(14 February 2002)

Subject: Democratisation in the Seychelles

The Seychelles remain a paradise for drug trafficking and money laundering, and the regime in place since 1976 is guilty of abuses of human rights.

What steps will the Commission take, under the auspices of the Cotonou Agreement and the EU's stated objectives on human rights and democracy, to support the process of democratisation in the Seychelles?

Answer given by Mr Nielson on behalf of the Commission

(12 March 2002)

The Community's relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States, as defined in the Cotonou Agreement, are based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. In formal terms, present-day Seychelles is a democratic country, even if it is true that the level of state control is high.

As an expression of the Community's commitment to democratic principles, co-operation with Seychelles under the 9th European Development Fund (EDF) will include support for the development and consolidation of non-state entities through a capacity-building programme for civil society.

The Commissioner in charge of Development, recently visited Seychelles, where he emphasised to Government representatives the importance attached to the development

of non-state entities, and of good governance in general, and made a point of meeting the Leader of the Opposition, the Reverend. Wavel Ramkalawan. This meeting not only provided a more rounded vision of the political and social reality of Seychelles, but also conveyed to Government the importance attached to opposition parties as guardians and monitors of good governance.