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 Seychelles| Facts & Figures |
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Republic of Seychelles
President: James Michel (2004) Total area: 176 sq mi (456 sq km) Population (2009 est.): 87,476 (growth
rate: 1.0%); birth rate: 15.8/1000; infant mortality rate:
12.3/1000; life expectancy: 73.0; density per sq mi: 465
Capital and largest city (2003 est.):
Victoria, 23,000 Monetary unit: Seychelles rupee More Facts & Figures |
Republic of Seychelles
GeographyThe Seychelles consist of an archipelago of about 100 islands in the
Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar. The principal islands are Mahé (55
sq mi; 142 sq km), Praslin (15 sq mi; 38 sq km), and La Digue (4 sq mi; 10
sq km). The Aldabra, Farquhar, and Desroches groups are included in the
territory of the republic.
GovernmentSocialist multiparty republic.
HistoryThe Seychelles were uninhabited when the British East India Company
arrived on the archipelago in 1609. Thereafter, they became a favorite
pirate haven. The French claimed the islands in 1756 and administered them
as part of the colony of Mauritius. The British gained control of the
islands through the Treaty of Paris (1814) and changed the islands' name
from the French Séchelles to the Anglicized Seychelles.
The islands became self-governing in 1975 and independent on June 29,
1976. They have remained a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. Their
first president, James Mancham, was overthrown in 1977 by the prime
minister, France-Albert René. At first René created a Socialist state with
a one-party system, but later he reintroduced a multiparty system as well
as various reforms.
To increase revenue, in 1996 the government quietly initiated an
Economic Citizenship Program that provides foreigners with the opportunity
to obtain a Seychelles passport upon payment of $25,000. A new law in late
1995 had granted immunity from criminal prosecution to anyone investing
$10 million in the country.
In April 2004, President France-Albert René stepped down after 27 years
in power. His vice president, James Michel, who had also served in the
government for 27 years, assumed the presidency. In July 2006, Michel won
reelection with 53.7% of the vote.
See also
Encyclopedia:
Seychelles
U.S. State Dept. Country Notes:
Seychelles
.
Seychelles Statistics and
Database Administration Section:
www.seychelles.net/misd/
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