Facts, Background and History
| Geographical Size | 455 sq km |
| Population Size | 82,247 (July 2008 est.) |
| Composition of Population | French, African, Indian, Chinese, and Arab |
| Official Languages | English |
| Other Languages | Creole |
| Main Religions | Roman Catholic 82.3%, Anglican 6.4%, Seventh Day Adventist 1.1%, other Christian 3.4%, Hindu 2.1%, Muslim 1.1%, other non-Christian 1.5%, unspecified 1.5%, none 0.6% (2002 census) |
| Climate | tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May) |
| Form of Government | republic |
| Last Democratic Elections | 28-30 July 2006 |
| Global Peace Index | |
| Main Economic Activities | Tourism, Farming and fishing |
| Main Trading Partners | UK 23.3%, France 19.5%, Mauritius 10.9%, Japan, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Germany, France, Spain, South Africa and Singapore |
| Capital | Victoria |
| Other Cities | Cascade, Takamaka, Saint Louis and Bel Air |
| Currency | Seychelles rupee (SCR) |
| Total GDP | $1.378 billion (2007 est.) |
| Per Capita Income | $16,600 (2007 est.) |
| Human Development Index | No//50 - (0.843) |
| Ibrahim Index | No// 3– (77.13) |
| FIFA Rating | |
| Main Creative Industries | Music, Theatre, Film, Dance, Museums and Art galleries |
Background and History
A lengthy struggle between France and Great Britain for the islands ended in 1814, when they were ceded to the latter. Independence came in 1976. Socialist rule was brought to a close with a new constitution and free elections in 1993. President France-Albert RENE, who had served since 1977, was re-elected in 2001, but stepped down in 2004. Vice President James MICHEL took over the presidency and in July 2006 was elected to a new five-year term.
