Chief Justice’s message for International Women’s Day – On this significant occasion of International Women’s Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all women across our beautiful nation. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable contributions that women make in every sphere of life, and it is an opportunity for us to reflect on the challenges that many still face.
As we celebrate the achievements of women, we also take this moment to honor our esteemed female Judicial Officers on International Women Judges Day. Their dedication to upholding justice and the rule of law is a testament to the strength and resilience of women in the legal profession. Women have long been the backbone of the Judiciary, consistently outnumbering their male counterparts. This year, the institution comprises 157 women and only 42 men—a figure that has grown from last year’s 152 women to 43 men. These numbers are not just statistics; they reflect a profound shift in the societal and professional landscape of Seychelles.
This dominance of women within the Judiciary signals both progress and an evolving dynamic within our society. It highlights the remarkable strides women have made in education, career advancement, and leadership. However, it also raises an important question about the position of men in our community. Are we witnessing a shift where men are falling behind in academics, civic involvement, and professional development? If so, we must ask ourselves whether men are facing challenges that are not being openly discussed—barriers that may include disengagement from education, lack of mentorship, or socio-economic struggles that limit opportunities.
As we champion gender equality, we must ensure that no one—regardless of gender—is left behind.
In line with this, we must continue to advocate for the most vulnerable members of our society, including single mothers, teenage mothers, the sick, and the elderly. Single and teenage mothers often struggle with financial instability and limited access to education and resources. Providing them with childcare support, mental health services, and professional training can enable them to create better futures for themselves and their children. Likewise, sick and elderly women must receive the healthcare, legal protection, and social support they need to live with dignity.
A cornerstone of our commitment to gender equality lies within Article 27 of the Constitution of Seychelles, which guarantees every individual the right to equal protection under the law. This fundamental principle should be utilized more vigorously by women in asserting their rights and seeking justice. Legal literacy programs can empower women to leverage this constitutional safeguard in various aspects of their lives, including employment, healthcare access, and protection from violence.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day and International Women Judges Day, let us commit to fostering an equitable society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. I urge all stakeholders—government officials, community leaders, NGOs, and citizens—to work together in uplifting women. Together, we can build a Seychelles where every individual—regardless of gender—can achieve their full potential.