On Thursday 15th May 2025, the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) led by the Chair Hon. Regina Esparon, held a discussion with stakeholders to commence a review on the Seychelles Domestic Violence Act 2020 and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Model Law on Gender-based Violence. In attendance was the Principal Secretary for the Family Department Mr. Mike Morel, Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the Family Department Ms. Trisha Dine and the Senior Legal Draftsperson from the Attorney General’s Office Mr. Victor Hill. Accompanying the members of the WPC were Hon. Gervais Henrie, Hon. John Hoareau, and Hon. Gerard Bijoux.
The primary objective of the meeting was to compare and deliberate on how the Model Law on Gender-Based and Domestic Violence could be effectively domesticated within the national legislative framework. Mr. Morel began by highlighting the significance of the meeting as an opportunity to engage in an open and honest discussion regarding the current Domestic Violence Act. He posed important considerations about the future of the legislation whether it should be amended or if an entirely new law be introduced. Hon. Esparon continued by providing a clear explanation of the concepts of gender-based violence and domestic violence. She then reviewed and contextualised the two guiding documents, helping participants to better understand their contents and relevance.
Following this, the Members present were given the opportunity to direct questions to the panel, comprising of Mr. Morel, Ms. Dine, and Mr. Hill. Key issues raised included the availability of shelters for victims of abuse, the importance of incorporating domestic violence education in schools, and the need for specialised personnel within police stations to effectively handle such cases.In response to the discussion, Mr. Hill proposed the appointment of a consultant to undertake a comprehensive analysis of both the Model Law and the current Domestic Violence Act. It was noted that this would help better identify existing gaps and inform how the Model Law could be effectively adapted to address them.
In her closing remarks, the Vice-Chairperson of the WPC Hon. Audrey Vidot, emphasised the critical role of various stakeholders in ensuring the success of any future reforms. She expressed her appreciation to the invited officials for their valuable contributions and insightful perspectives shared during the meeting.
