Political indicator declines globally

Reporters Without Borders, a Paris-based non-governmental organization, reported that Seychelles’ global press freedom ranking fell three places, sliding from 34th in 2023 to 37th in 2024.

Each year, the index is unveiled on World Press Freedom Day, observed on May 3rd, highlighting the core tenets of press freedom universally. The assessment considers five criteria: political, economic, legislative, social, and security factors. Worldwide, the political indicator witnessed the most notable decline, averaging a decrease of 7.6 points.

In 2022, Seychelles stood 13th among 180 nations and led in sub-Saharan Africa. However, it relinquished this position the following year, plummeting 21 spots. Rassin Vannier, president of the Association of Media Practitioners of Seychelles (AMPS), revealed AMPS’ intention to convene consultative sessions with authorities to stem further decline.

During the May 3rd, 2024 seminar, Vannier remarked, « As the elections approach next year and considering the difficulties we encountered in working with the Commission during the 2020 elections, we felt it would be advantageous for both parties to engage in dialogue. » Media representatives, including those from the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC), TeleSesel, Seychelles Nation, Today in Seychelles, and The People, were present.

The Seychelles Electoral Commission (ECS) elucidated its role and mandate, facilitating journalists’ opportunity to voice concerns regarding electoral process coverage.