Salim Mathieu: What Seychelles Can Learn from Nordic Economic Models

When I first began spending long periods of my life in Northern Europe, I quickly understood why the Nordic countries are admired far beyond their borders. It is not only because they are prosperous or well managed. It is because they have built economic models that place human capability, trust, and long term thinking at the center of national development. As a Seychellois observing these systems up close, I could not help thinking about what lessons Seychelles could adapt to shape a stronger and more resilient future.

Nordic countries did not become successful by chance. They became successful because they committed to a clear national philosophy. They believed that small nations could thrive in a global economy if they invested in people, if they designed efficient institutions, and if they built societies where fairness and competence reinforce one another. Seychelles, although vastly different in geography and culture, can apply elements of this approach in ways that respect our identity while elevating our national capabilities.

One of the most striking lessons is the importance of trust. Nordic economies operate on a level of public confidence that is rare. Citizens trust institutions. Institutions trust professionals. Businesses trust the state to be predictable and fair. This trust reduces friction throughout the economy. Processes become faster. Innovation becomes easier. Corruption becomes costly. And society becomes more stable. Seychelles cannot replicate Nordic culture, but we can cultivate a culture of transparency and predictable governance that inspires confidence. Trust is not a cultural trait. It is a choice made through policy and leadership.

Another powerful lesson is the concept of long term planning. Nordic countries think in generations. Their economic and social policies are designed with continuity in mind. A new government does not dismantle the foundations of the previous one simply for political identity. Instead, they refine, improve, and continue. This continuity is one of the most underrated reasons for Nordic prosperity. Seychelles must learn to plan beyond electoral cycles. If we want a stronger economy, we need national strategies that survive politics and focus on national interest.

The Nordic model also demonstrates the value of investing heavily in human capital. Education is not seen as an expense but as a national asset. Skills training is aligned with future economic needs. Workers are encouraged to upgrade their skills throughout their lives. Seychelles stands at a crossroads where our economic future depends heavily on our ability to move from low complexity activities toward high skill sectors. If we integrate lifelong learning, modern vocational programs, and international partnerships into our education system, we can unlock the true potential of our people.

Another lesson is the way Nordic countries unite social stability with economic competitiveness. Many mistakenly believe that generous social systems weaken economies. The opposite is true. When people feel secure, they take risks. They start businesses. They contribute ideas. They innovate. Seychelles can embrace a similar balance. A more effective and fair social system does not need to be expensive. It needs to be efficient, transparent, and targeted toward enabling people to contribute to national development. When citizens feel supported, they become more productive.

The Nordic commitment to innovation is another area where Seychelles can learn. These countries constantly reinvent themselves. They do not rely on one sector or one historic advantage. Instead, they use their small size to stay agile. That agility is something Seychelles must cultivate. We cannot remain dependent on a limited number of industries. We need a strategic shift into digital services, blue economy research, creative industries, renewable energy, and modern tourism management. Innovation must become a core part of our national identity because it is the only way for small states to stay competitive.

One of the lessons I admire most is the way Nordic countries treat their public servants. In Scandinavia, public service is a professional, respected, and highly skilled field. Competence is rewarded, and institutions are designed to operate with independence and integrity. The result is a government that citizens respect and rely on. Seychelles must build institutions that prioritise expertise, efficiency, and discipline. When public service improves, the entire economy becomes more dynamic and trustworthy.

Nordic nations also demonstrate the power of diplomacy. They maintain an impressive global presence and invest heavily in international cooperation. They understand that influence is not measured by size but by engagement. Seychelles can take inspiration from this approach by expanding its diplomatic reach, especially in regions that offer economic and technological benefits. A stronger presence abroad would not only unlock opportunities for investment and knowledge transfer, it would also strengthen our national voice on issues like climate resilience and ocean governance.

Another element that stands out in the Nordic model is the commitment to fairness. These countries work hard to ensure that opportunities are not concentrated in narrow networks. Talent is allowed to rise. Merit matters. Seychelles must ensure that our economic future is built on equality of opportunity. When young Seychellois feel that their work and ability determine their success, the entire nation moves forward.

Finally, Scandinavian societies place immense value on community wellbeing. They understand that economic success is only meaningful when it translates into quality of life. Public spaces are clean, safe, and accessible. Culture and sports are treated as essential, not optional. People feel connected to their nation because their nation invests in them. Seychelles can adopt a similar philosophy by strengthening our communities, revitalising public spaces, and creating environments where people can live well while pursuing their goals.

The Nordic model is not perfect and it is not something Seychelles can simply copy. Our history, geography, and culture are unique. But the principles behind Nordic success are universal. Invest in people. Build trustworthy institutions. Plan for the long term. Embrace innovation. Protect fairness. Expand global engagement. These are lessons any nation can adapt, especially a small one with big potential.

My time in Europe taught me that Seychelles has every ingredient needed to succeed in its own way. What we need now is a shift in mindset, a willingness to demand excellence, and the courage to build systems that reflect our ambitions rather than our limitations. If we embrace these lessons thoughtfully, Seychelles can become not just a prosperous nation but a model of small state success in the Indian Ocean.

We are not limited by size. We are limited only by the scale of our vision.