Overview of Seychelles

Profile

Located approximately 1,300km from the African continent in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles comprises 115 islands mixing granite and coral reef islands, boasting world-class marine biodiversity. After gaining independence from Britain in 1976, it now operates as a presidential republic. Tourism and fishing form the economic pillars, with per capita GNI ranking highest in Africa. Three official languages—Creole, English, and French—coexist, and a multi-ethnic Creole culture is deeply rooted. The nation actively pursues environmental conservation, establishing marine protected areas nearly equal to its land territory.

Official name: Republic of Seychelles
Common name: Seychelles
Numeric code: 690
Alpha-3 code: SYC
Alpha-2 code: SC
Population: Just under 110,000 (2023)
Population density: Approximately 230 people/km2
Primary languages: Seychellois Creole, English, French
Major religions: Roman Catholic, Anglican
National anthem: Koste Seselwa (Join Together All Seychellois)
Calling code: +248
Internet TLD: .sc

History

Following French and British colonial periods, it gained independence in 1976. Immediately after independence, it adopted socialist one-party rule, transitioning to multi-party democracy after 1993.

Arab ships are recorded passing through around the 7th century, but permanent settlement began with French expeditions in the 1740s. It became British territory under the 1814 Treaty of Paris and was separated from Mauritius in 1903. After independence in 1976, President René established one-party rule through a coup the following year. Following the 1991 democratization declaration, a new constitution was adopted in 1993, returning to multi-party democracy. In 2016, the first 'divided parliament' emerged, and the 2020 election saw the first change of government in 43 years.

Geography & climate

Granite islands like main island Mahé in the northwest feature steep hills and rich tropical forests, while Outer Islands to the southwest are flat coral reef islands formed as atolls.

Tropical maritime climate

Area: Africa / 459 km²
Capital: Victoria
Largest city: Victoria
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Coral reefs, Abundant tuna fishing grounds, Coconuts, Granite, Sea salt, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Tourism resources, Marine biodiversity, Solar energy

Politics

Government: Presidential constitutional republic

Economy

Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

GDP (nominal): 19 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 35 hundred million USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Seychellois Creole, English, French

Time zone: Seychelles Time (SCT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Seychellois Creole, Indian, Chinese, French, British

Life expectancy

Approximately 76 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 95%

National sports

Football, Cricket, Volleyball, Basketball, Sailing, Athletics, Diving, Fishing