Press Conference Highlights: Seychelles maintains tier 1 ranking in the 2024 U.S Trafficking In Persons Report

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Seychelles, in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Seychelles, organized a press conference today to highlight the findings of the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report. The event emphasized Seychelles' continued efforts in combating human trafficking, as evidenced by its Tier 1 ranking in the report.

During the press conference, representatives from both the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the U.S. Embassy praised the efforts of Seychelles in maintaining its’ measures to prevent human trafficking, protect victims and prosecute offenders. The panel consisted of the U.S. Ambassador to Seychelles Mr. Henry Jardine,Principal Secretary of the Social Affairs Department and Chairperson of the National Coordinating Committee against Trafficking In Persons Mrs. Linda William-Melanie, Director of the Trafficking In Persons Secretariat, within the Ministry of Internal Affairs Ms. Michele Sabury and Sergeant Davis Simeon from the Seychelles Police.

The Tier 1 ranking signifies that Seychelles meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. Key points highlighted during the conference included the review of anti-trafficking laws, the establishment of support services for victims and ongoing training and awareness programs for law enforcement and the public. The collaboration between local authorities and international partners was also recognized as a critical factor in achieving and sustaining this ranking.

The press conference served as a platform to reaffirm Seychelles' commitment to fighting human trafficking and to outline future initiatives aimed at strengthening these efforts further. The continued Tier 1 ranking underscores the nation's dedication to upholding human rights and ensuring justice for all individuals within its borders.