Mauritius, a small island with a very strategic location in the Indian Ocean, has enjoyed harmony and stability for a long time, although the country has no Army. Instead, Mauritius relies on its Police Force and Coast Guard for security.
Crime Rate: Mauritius is known for its low crime rate and is generally considered a safe country. The most common crimes are minor thefts, while violent crime is uncommon.
Key Factors Contributing To Mauritius’ stability
A typical Mauritian’s day often starts with a good cup of tea and bread, usually baguettes, which are buttered and filled with Gato Pima, a very famous Mauritian delicacy. Some folk like to have a bit of fruit on the side, with a ripe yellow banana being a popular choice. After having their breakfast, they get on with their daily activities, knowing they are safe from any foreign threats.
This scenario is not the same in every country, where some people can wake up and have their breakfast in peace and quiet. For those who live in war-afflicted countries, the above description of a typical morning for Mauritians is considered a luxury.
There are a few key factors that contribute to Mauritius’ peaceful and stable state.
Some of them are listed below:
Diplomacy: Mauritius is well known for fostering positive relations with other nations. As a member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), it maintains a neutral stance and refrains from associating with major global power blocs. The country has actively participated in numerous trade agreements, such as the Mauritius-China Free Trade Agreement and the EU Economic Partnership Agreement, which have played a significant role in shaping its economic and trade diplomacy.
Focus on Development: The Mauritian Government has always prioritised investing in areas like education,infrastructure and healthcare.It has strongly prioritised education and ensured that everyone has access to primary education while also expanding opportunities for further studies. As a result, the country has a high literacy rate.
These are some of the reasons why the Mauritian Government has been successful at maintaining harmony in the country.
Security Forces in Mauritius
Mauritius has no army but has paramilitary forces such as the Special Mobile Force (SMF). It also has law enforcement and security forces, including the Mauritius Police Force (MPF) and the National Coast Guard (NCG).
Special Mobile Force(SMF): The Special Mobile Force is a paramilitary division in Mauritius which manages national emergencies,disaster response and internal security.It was established in 1960,after the British military forces departed from Mauritius.
Mauritius Police Force(MPF): The Mauritius Police Force is the main law enforcement body in Mauritius, operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is tasked with maintaining law and order and preventing crime. Established in 1767 during the French colonial era, it expanded and upgraded its operations following Mauritius’ independence in 1968.
National Coast Guard(NCG): The National Coast Guard,established in 1973, is a maritime and law enforcement agency in Mauritius that operates under the Mauritius Police Force and Ministry of Home Affairs.It is there to protect the country’s maritime affairs.
Nature of Mauritians
As a result of the country’s stable and harmonious state, Mauritians are able to maintain a laid-back attitude towards life. They are also very tolerant and open-minded due to their diverse multicultural society. Therefore, it can be concluded that Mauritius is indeed a safe country with very warm and welcoming people.
