For an explanation of how to read this resource, refer to the guide at the end.
AI Regulation
There is no regulation specifically governing AI in the country. However, there have been certain actions in furtherance of AI governance. These include a March 2024 seminar hosted by the National Assembly, titled ‘Artificial Intelligence – The Future’, 1and the introduction of a draft private members’ bill, the ‘Pro-Human Technology Bill’.2
Definitions of AI
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal definition of AI.
Core Principles
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal statement of core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country. Nevertheless, the National Assembly seminar marked a step in this direction by bringing together various stakeholders for open discussions, although it did not include a formal public consultation process accessible to the general public.
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Seychelles3
- Seychelles National Development Strategy (2024–2028)4
- Seychelles’ Second Open Government National Action Plan 2024-20255
- National ICT Policy6
- Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (2016–2025)7
- Communications Act, 2023 (Act 3 of 2023)8
- Broadcasting and Telecommunication (Quality of Service) Regulations, 20229
- Data Protection Act, 2023 (Act 24 of 2023)10
- Access to Information Act, 2018 (Act No. 4 of 2018)11
- Cybercrimes and Other Related Crimes Act, 2021 (Act 59 of 2021)12
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Seychelles has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Seychelles includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.13 Article 20 guarantees the right to privacy (protection from search of the person or their property or premises, or from entry onto their premises, and protection from the interception of correspondence or other means of communication). Other protections include the rights to life (Article 15), dignity (Article 16), freedom of expression (Article 22), equality and non-discrimination (Article 27), and healthcare, education, and work (Articles 29, 33, and 35, respectively). Seychelles has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT)14
- National Institute for Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI)15
- Information Commission (InfoCom)16
- Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS)17
- Seychelles Human Rights Commission (SHRC)18
- Seychelles Office of the Ombudsman19
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
In April 2024, the University of Seychelles partnered with EON Reality to launch a Spatial AI Center, featuring the design of 10,000 customised courses aimed at equipping learners with the skills needed for an AI-integrated economy.20
In 2018, the Seychelles Fishing Authority launched a pilot initiative called FishGuard, in collaboration with the Seychelles Air Force, Seychelles Coast Guard, and other partners, to combat illegal fishing.21 FishGuard uses short- and long-range unmanned drones equipped with AI to monitor vast areas of the Seychelles’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).22 Developed by the technology startup ATLAN Space, the project received funding from National Geographic.23
Professional/Industry Associations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of professional or industry associations dedicated to AI in the country.
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
