Stakeholder preferences and perceived effectiveness of coastal adaptation measures in Seychelles

Abstract Effective coastal adaptation to sea-level rise (SLR) is a complex and urgent challenge, especially for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), where responses are shaped by social, ecological, and governance dynamics. Here, we investigate how stakeholders in Seychelles perceive the effectiveness of various coastal adaptation options, including hard and soft protection, and nature-based solutions (NbS). Based on 19 semi-structured interviews, we examine five evaluative dimensions—risk reduction, cost-effectiveness, long-term sustainability, maladaptive consequences, and accountability—derived from existing adaptation literature. Stakeholders expressed strong support for hard protection due to its perceived immediate effectiveness, despite some criticisms; NbS were favoured for their long-term benefits and participatory appeal, whereas soft measures received limited endorsement due to concerns about durability and technical feasibility. Perceptions of effectiveness were highly context-dependent and grounded in local observations. Our findings emphasise the need for planning processes that take into consideration the priorities of stakeholders. By advancing context-sensitive, perception-based evaluation, this study supports more inclusive and grounded coastal adaptation in Seychelles and SIDS.