Churches in this predominantly Roman Catholic nation have also been strong voices for human rights and democratization. All function without government interference. Discrimination against foreign workers has been reported. Security forces have been accused of using excessive force, including torture and arbitrary detention, especially in attempting to curb crime. Independent newspapers are sharply critical of the government, but government dominance and the threat of libel suits restrict media freedom.
Opposition parties publish several newsletters and other publications.
The opposition weekly Regar has been sued repeatedly for libel under broad constitutional restrictions on free expression for protecting the reputation, rights, and freedoms of private lives of persons and in the interest of defense, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health. One of the latest lawsuits was brought in March by the minister of land use and habitat. The government-controlled Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation, however, provided substantial coverage to opposition as well as government candidates during the last elections. Academic advancement is reportedly contingent on loyalty to the ruling party. Women are less likely than men to be literate and have fewer educational opportunities.