The Legal Fight
The fight through institutions — the constitutional petition filed under Article 38, the failed impact-assessment process, the permits, and the Public Commission of Inquiry that put it all on the record.
Part of Aldabra
72 moments in this segment.
- — Protecting Wildlife: Why Better EIA Regulations Matter Seychelles' wildlife is a…. treasure we must protect—but how effective are our current Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) in safeguarding it? As we scratch the surface of a much larger conversation about the gaps in our systems and how we can do better, what are your thoughts here? 📺 Watch the full video on YouTube to learn why stronger regulations are essential for protecting our unique biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future. 💬 Your voice matters! Join the discussion and be part of the change. 👉 Click the link in our bio to watch the full video now! : : : #SeychellesAtHeart #ProtectOurWildlife #StrongerEIA #ConservationMatters #SeychellesBiodiversity #SustainableFuture #WatchNow
- — You have probably seen the photo of the injured tortoise we shared recently.. Now, with reports that no hatchlings have emerged on Assomption Island, the Orianne Society’s warnings read almost like a prophecy. Originally annexed to our white paper response to the official Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, this letter outlined risks that now appear to be unfolding. The @oriannesociety, led by CEO Christopher L. Jenkins, PhD, highlighted the potential consequences of the luxury resort on Assomption: 🐢 “The development of the resort has the potential to impact tortoise populations on Assomption and Aldabra and the species they support. On Assomption, direct impacts such as animals being killed by vehicles, being displaced by habitat loss and fragmentation, and invasive species preying on eggs and young are all likely.” 🌊 “Sea turtles have experienced a global decline. Assomption Island provides critical nesting habitat for both Green and Hawksbill sea turtles. The creation of a resort on Assomption will impact sea turtles by disturbing key nesting habitat, creating light pollution, and increasing the chances of invasive species predating eggs and hatchlings. In addition, erosion and sand harvesting will likely impact nesting habitat.” 🌱 “Tourism is important and can bring economic value, but the Seychelles already has an extensive tourism economy, and Assomption Island is too important to develop.” 🌟 “In conserving both Aldabra and Assomption, the Seychelles would have made a significant contribution to global conservation worth celebrating.” Expert voices like these remind us that these warnings are not abstract — they are real and urgent. Aldabra’s tortoises, turtles, and ecosystems need protection now, before more irreversible harm occurs. #ProtectAldabra
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (1/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (2/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (3/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (4/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (5/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (6/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (7/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (8/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. (9/9). Friends of Aldabra is taking legal action. Today, we filed a constitutional petition to challenge the Assomption Island hotel development — to safeguard Aldabra and Assomption, and to defend the right of every Seychellois to a clean, healthy, and ecologically balanced environment (Article 38). This is bigger than Aldabra and Assomption. It’s about defending principles and protecting the places we love, which belong to all Seychellois — past, present, and future. We’re calling on youth, civil society, and environmental defenders in Seychelles and beyond to stand with us. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #Seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (1/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (2/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (3/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (4/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (5/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (6/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (7/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (8/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (9/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (10/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (11/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (12/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (13/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Nature made us do it. (14/14). Nature made us do it. Aldabra and Assomption may seem remote but their beauty and fragility touch us all. We have a responsibility to protect nature, especially when it cannot protect itself. This is why we filed a constitutional petition: to ensure these extraordinary places endure, wild and thriving. Photos by the wonderful @evileyelander #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #seychelles
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (1/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (2/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (3/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (4/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (9/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (6/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (7/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (10/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (8/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (5/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad… (11/11). 🚨 Oggi è stata presentata una petizione costituzionale contro il progetto di hotel ad Assomption Island. Una battaglia per difendere il diritto dei Seychellesi a un ambiente sano e il futuro delle nostre isole 👉 Non è solo Assomption. È il futuro delle Seychelles. 📢 Fai sentire anche la tua voce: condividi questo messaggio e sostieni chi lotta per proteggere le nostre isole. @victoria_duthil @move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart @friendsofaldabra . . . #FriendsOfAldabra #Seychelles #Ambiente #AssomptionIsland #StopUnsustainableDevelopment
- — It all started with IDC’s 2023 tender for an “eco-resort” that would serve as a…. “gateway to Aldabra”. It evolved into a massive luxury complex with 40-villas, 4 restaurants and amenities for the global elite. @victoria_duthil walks us through key events and documentation revealing how due process appears to have been breached in the approval and construction of the Assomption resort. 🤝 About the lease: In September 2024, IDC signed a lease with Qatari developers granting them a minimum of 400,000 m² on Assomption Island, with the option to expand by the end of 2025. The price agreed for the investors is just under 30 rupees per m² per year. An upfront payment of USD 20 million covered the first 25 years of the lease, including USD 5 million which appears to have been paid before the hotel was approved by the authorities. 📆 Timeline of key events: Aug 2023: Deadline for IDC tender calling for an “eco-resort” on Assomption that would be “a gateway to Aldabra”. Oct-Nov 2023: Expansion of airstrip. 25 Apr 2024: Public government endorsement for the project given two months before the EIA was finalised. 24 Jun 2024: EIA published. 18 Sep 2024: Lease agreement signed between IDC & Ocean Breeze Investments Limited (developers’ Seychellois company). + USD 5 Million payment agreed upon signature of lease agreement. Sep 2024: Development and EIA submitted to Planning Authority for review. Nov 2024: Permission granted for staff housing construction. 15 Dec 2024: USD 5 Million payment due to IDC (as per lease agreement). 2025: Remaining balance of USD 10 million to be made in twelve equal instalments (as per lease agreement). Mar–Apr 2025: Construction of villas commences. May 2025: Stop Notice issued for EIA breaches, yet it seems construction continues. Aug 2025: First environmental officer deployed to the island. FROM NOV 2024 TO AUG 2025: THERE WAS NO ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER ON-SITE, meaning developers proceeded without environmental supervision. ⏰ Doesn’t it seem these timelines just don’t add up? We can still stop the irreversible harm this hotel would cause Assomption’s fragile ecosystem. 🌿 Assomption is worth saving. 🛰️ Satellite images @planetsapling
- — “It’s not that hard!” – Madam Torti reminds us that protecting Seychelles’ environment…. starts with setting science-based rules, and following them. ✍️ An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is meant to be done before any project begins — to understand its effects on nature, wildlife, and communities, and to prevent irreversible harm. In the case of Assomption Island, the EIA was not followed — and no rigorous, independent study could ever have justified the proposed development, at such a scale, in a site as ecologically sensitive as Assomption and Aldabra. 💡 What we’re asking for isn’t complicated: clear, enforceable and evidence-based EIA regulations, carried out to best-in-class standards, so Seychelles can uphold its global reputation for conservation and sustainability. 🗣️ Seychelles’ scientists and conservationists already have the expertise to do this right. They have practical, constructive ideas that can help shape a future where people and nature thrive together Let’s give them the space and authority they deserve. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles #FriendsofAldabra
- — The real issue behind the Assomption Island hotel project?. ? A broken ESIA process. Let’s look at the timeline: Apr 2024: Seychelles Cabinet fully endorses the project Jun 2024: The Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is published Nov 2024: Seychelles Planning Authority grants development approval The ESIA is supposed to inform decisions, not arrive months after political approval. Endorsing the project before the environmental evidence exists turns the drafting of an ESIA into a box-ticking exercise without real meaning or influence. This raises a deeper question: 👉 Is this how we value the environment? Something added at the end instead of guiding decisions from the start. This isn’t just an Assomption problem. It exposes a systemic weakness in how developments are regulated across Seychelles. But it’s also an opportunity. Seychelles can fix the process: 🐢Ensure ESIAs happen before any political or planning endorsement 🪸Require early scoping and genuine community engagement 🐋Establish clear, enforceable, best-in-class ESIA regulations Protecting Seychelles’ environment, heritage, and global reputation starts with repairing the system meant to safeguard them. Note: The Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is often referred to simply as an EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment). #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles #FriendsofAldabra
- — A biodiversity assessment is not a box-ticking exercise.. It is the foundation of any responsible decision about development. Here’s why it matters so much for Assomption: 🌱 It records what exists: it maps plants, animals and habitats, and will determine whether Assomption may be home to rare species or even species found nowhere else on Earth. 📸 It creates a baseline: a “before” snapshot of life on the island, giving us a reference point so that what is discovered can be properly understood, monitored, and protected over time. 🐚 It has never been done on Assomption Island: there is no comprehensive existing data. We know the island is rich in insect life and is an important nesting site for sea turtles, but we don’t yet know the full extent of the life it supports, or what could be at risk. 🌦️ It must last a full year: life on the island changes with the seasons and monsoons. A short study cannot capture the full reality of Assomption’s wildlife. Following discussions with SIF, we learned that there was a plan to carry out a biodiversity assessment in parallel to construction. However, a biodiversity assessment cannot serve its purpose if construction is ongoing. Without a pause in building, there is no true baseline - only a distorted picture shaped by human disturbance. An independent, year-long assessment, carried out before any risk of further construction, is the only way informed and responsible decisions can be made about Assomption’s future. ⁉️ Have questions about what a biodiversity assessment is or why it matters? Let us know in the comments. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — Yesterday (13th January 2026), gave her deposition as part of the public inquiry into…. Yesterday (13th January 2026), @victoria_duthil gave her deposition as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. 🐢 Her deposition focused on environmental breaches, breaches of due process and questionable governance. 🌟🦈🪸 There wasn’t enough time to cover everything, but much of this will be captured in our evidence pack and in other depositions by Seychellois scientists and experts happening this week. If you or someone you know has information or concerns about the Assomption development, now really is the time to speak up. More information on the inquiry is available at: assomptioninquiry.com and here is their contact information: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 You can also watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams Comment LIVE and we’ll send you these links ⬆️ This is a crucial moment. Let’s make sure the right information is heard. 🐚 #ProtectAldabra #ProtectAssomption #FriendsofAldabra
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (1/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (2/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (3/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (4/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (5/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (6/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (7/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (10/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (8/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — On 13 January 2026, and Lucie Harter ( ) gave their depositions as part of the public… (9/10). On 13 January 2026, @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@seychellesatheart) gave their depositions as part of the public inquiry into the Assomption Island hotel development. Here are some clips from their depositions. They touch upon: 🇸🇨 The reputation of Seychelles, and why protecting nature is central to it 🌿The urgent need for a full 1-year biodiversity assessment 🚪Why there has been so much secrecy around the island if there is “nothing to hide” ⚖️Unequal planning rules and regulations: easier for some, harder for others 🥔A system stuck in a cycle of blame 🔐Concerns about the membership of the new task force 😶The fear of publicly speaking out about the Assomption development There’s still time to get involved. If you have information and/or documents about the development, you can submit them directly to the Commission: 📩 secretary@assomptioninquiry.com 📞 (+248) 280 9574 More info on their website: assomptioninquiry.com You can watch the inquiry sessions online via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams This process will shape the future of Assomption and Aldabra. Every voice matters. #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the public inquiry, the question of the new Assomption Task Force was raised… (1/2). During the public inquiry, the question of the new Assomption Task Force was raised with both @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart). This brought up the issues of: ⭕ A closed circle of decision-makers (Matilda Twomey described the situation as “incestuous”), ⚔️ Potential conflicts of interest and, 🎪 How can a body made up of the same institutions that created the problem now be trusted to fix it and provide independent oversight. Friends of Aldabra has written to the Ministry of the Environment to flag its concerns about the Task Force membership. What are your thoughts on this Task Force? Let us know below! Watch more of the public inquiry via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the public inquiry, the question of the new Assomption Task Force was raised… (2/2). During the public inquiry, the question of the new Assomption Task Force was raised with both @victoria_duthil and Lucie Harter (@move_with_lucie @seychellesatheart). This brought up the issues of: ⭕ A closed circle of decision-makers (Matilda Twomey described the situation as “incestuous”), ⚔️ Potential conflicts of interest and, 🎪 How can a body made up of the same institutions that created the problem now be trusted to fix it and provide independent oversight. Friends of Aldabra has written to the Ministry of the Environment to flag its concerns about the Task Force membership. What are your thoughts on this Task Force? Let us know below! Watch more of the public inquiry via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (1/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (2/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (3/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (4/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (5/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (6/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (7/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (8/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (9/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (10/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During the Commission of Inquiry,, and were invited to bring their professional… (11/11). During the Commission of Inquiry, @the_fish_dr, @jeanneamortimer and @rich_in_nature were invited to bring their professional scientific perspective to the Assomption Island hotel development. Their testimonies touch on the following points of concern: 🏗️ The scale of construction and the lack of studies assessing whether the island can safely support so much concrete (Assomption is a coral island, not solid granite like the Inner Islands of Seychelles, it’s a very different kind of ground to build on). 🌊 Gaps in how Assomption’s sea turtle habitat was assessed in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), despite turtles being key indicators of ecosystem health. 🚢 Biosecurity procedures that failed to be applied during the construction phase. This raises serious questions about long-term management of biosecurity of an operational hotel. ✈️ Noise pollution and collision risks linked to increased air traffic, and the impact this could have on bird populations. 🌍 Confirmation that a project next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site warrants an international-level ESIA. 🌿 The need for a full, 1-year biodiversity assessment while construction is paused. i.e. not done simultaneously. 🕳️ Concerns around Assomption’s hydrology, karst system, caves and sinkholes, and the unknown consequences of backfilling them. These scientific testimonies confirm that the many environmental concerns raised in the past year and a half were not unfounded. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — “Everything’s been rushed...The one that’s gonna lose out there is Aldabra.” Guy…. Esparon, Board Member of @sif_seychelles, spoke about the situation on Assomption at the Commission of Inquiry. He highlights that: ⚔️ Seychelles are the guardians of Aldabra, holding it in trust for humanity 🛑 Rushed processes put Aldabra at risk 🐠 Aldabra is a place of extraordinary resilience and wonder 🌊 The Marine Spatial Plan must be enforced: the Aldabra Group lies in Zone 1, the highest level of protection We shouldn’t risk compromising a place like Aldabra. Rushed decisions and commercial timelines are what have brought us to this point, which is why it’s so important that the stop notice stays in place and that a 1-year biodiversity assessment of Assomption Island is done carefully and thoroughly. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — In his deposition,, explains that a biodiversity assessment cannot be carried out…. In his deposition, @the_fish_dr, explains that a biodiversity assessment cannot be carried out while construction is underway. Assomption deserves a biodiversity assessment aligned with best international practice - not just because it is so close to Aldabra but also because the island is understudied. The stop notice must remain in place until this work is done properly. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — There is only one Aldabra.. @rich_in_nature explains that if something happens to Aldabra, there is no backup. The loss would be permanent. Aldabra represents: • 75% of Seychelles’ national parks • 15% of the country’s marine spatial plan Protecting it is not just an environmental issue, it’s a national interest. People should be able to experience Aldabra, but there are ways to do that without building a luxury hotel next door. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — During his deposition, Gregory Burke ( ) of explains that there is a need to assess…. During his deposition, Gregory Burke (@seygreg) of @sey_islandconservationsociety explains that there is a need to assess the damage that has occured on Assomption Island before decisions are made about next steps. Assomption Island is not a wasteland, but a valuable environment. Only after we understand the current state of the island can any future vision be discussed - and it should be one that respects the island’s ecology, not overwhelms it. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc ’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — Damage has already been done on Assomption Island.. The gravely injured tortoise photo in September 2025 was a symbol of that. The Commission of Inquiry has raised more environmental concerns: from the filling of karst caves to a 5.5 km water pipe on the beach impeding sea turtle movement. That’s exactly why construction must stop. In his deposition, @rich_in_nature explains that we need a full year to study what wildlife is active on Assomption and define how to protect it. Continuing construction activities while carrying out a biodiversity assessment simply makes no sense. You can watch the public inquiry sessions via @sbc.sc’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — What is going on??. ?? Has construction secretly resumed on Assomption? During this week’s Public Inquiry depositions, @sif_seychelles CEO Frauke Fleischer-Dogley appears to have stated that construction has partially resumed. How can this happen during an ongoing public inquiry with no public announcement? Is the stop notice no longer in force? What about the commitment to a 1-year long biodiversity assessment with no ongoing construction? Is this what transparency looks like? We have fought hard against this pattern of decisions being made in the dark, announced as fait accompli. More clarity is urgently needed. Have you watched her and Bernard Georges’ depositions on @sbc.sc’s YouTube? Link: https://www.youtube.com/@SBCSeychelles/streams Inquiry Schedule: https://assomptioninquiry.com/causelist-and-contact #ProtectAssomption #ProtectAldabra #Seychelles
- — Before many Seychellois even knew what was happening on Assomption Island,…. construction had already begun. During the Commission of Inquiry, it emerged that the airstrip was expanded, heavy machinery had been used on the island, and sections of its ancient sand dunes had been destroyed, all in an environment known for its ecological sensitivity. Without meaningful public consultation or a proper environmental impact assessments. Permission for these works had been granted by the Ministry of Environment, raising deeper questions about how such decisions were made and how environmental protections are applied. Moments like this invite us to reflect on something bigger. How much transparency should exist around major developments? And who ultimately decides what happens to our land? You can watch the full conversation on the Seychelles at Heart YouTube channel.
- — BREAKING NEWS: The Commission of Inquiry has officially submitted its final report on…. Assomption Island to President Patrick Herminie. The report spans more than 400 pages, including over 100 pages dedicated to environmental issues. We understand it is expected to be made public before the end of the month. According to the Commissioner, the findings confirm that there was a clear need for this investigation. The report identifies environmental breaches, failures in oversight, and indications of executive interference, with several matters referred for further investigation. For Friends of Aldabra, these findings reinforce what we have been saying all along: the Assomption hotel development has come at a significant cost to the fragile ecosystems of Assomption and Aldabra, and to the unique wildlife that depends on them. The damage already caused is deeply concerning, and continued development risks causing further irreversible harm. We call on the Government to: 🛑 Halt the development on Assomption once and for all. 📄 Publish the full report and the Commission’s recommendations once the response period has concluded ❓ Clarify whether any hotel construction or related works are still taking place on the island The future of Assomption and Aldabra cannot be decided behind closed doors. The public deserves transparency, accountability, and decisive action.
