UNODC Hails Seychelles as Regional Powerhouse in Fight Against Drugs and Crime
Seychelles has once again found itself in the international spotlight—but this time for all the right reasons.
During a courtesy visit on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) praised the island nation for its “remarkable leadership” in combatting drugs, crime, and corruption. The Regional Representative for Eastern Africa, Ms. Ashita Mittal, met with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde at Maison Queau de Quinssy, where the diplomatic air was heavy with mutual respect and ambition.
“Seychelles is a very important partner for UNODC,” Ms. Mittal declared. “This country has not only demonstrated determination but has also become a model for regional cooperation on some of the most pressing threats of our time. We are eager to share Seychelles’ experience across Eastern Africa.”
The visit was more than just a formal handshake—it signaled Seychelles’ rising clout as a regional leader in the fight against illicit drug trade, corruption, and transnational crime. UNODC’s commendation comes amid intensified global attention on maritime security in the Indian Ocean and the growing role small island states play in upholding regional stability.
Minister Radegonde welcomed the recognition and returned the compliments with equal conviction. “We thank UNODC for its consistent support in building the capacity of our law enforcement agencies,” he said, before addressing the elephant in the room—maritime security.
“Seychelles is on the frontlines. We face serious challenges in safeguarding our waters, and we need more robust regional cooperation to confront the illicit activities that undermine our sovereignty and threaten our communities,” the Minister added.
With drug trafficking and organized crime evolving in scale and sophistication, the need for smart, international partnerships has never been more urgent. Seychelles’ commitment to the cause is now being recognized—not just as participation, but as leadership.
As the region grapples with these shared threats, Seychelles may well be charting the course for others to follow.
