| SAMOA Independent State of Samoa Malo Sa'oloto Tuto'atasi o Samoa Joined United Nations: 15 December 1976 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 04/20/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Apia
219,998 (July 2009 est.)
Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi
Chief since 18 June 2007
Chief since 18 June 2007
Elected following the abdication Chief Tanumafili II Malietoa,
by the Legislative Assembly to serve a five-year term (no term
limits); Last election: 18 June 2007
Next scheduled election: June 2012
by the Legislative Assembly to serve a five-year term (no term
limits); Last election: 18 June 2007
Next scheduled election: June 2012
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Sailele Malielegaoi Tuila'epa
Prime Minister since March 1996
Prime Minister since March 1996
Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party is
usually appointed prime minister by the chief of state with the
approval of the Legislative Assembly; elections: election last
held: 31 March 2006
Next Election: not later than March 2011
usually appointed prime minister by the chief of state with the
approval of the Legislative Assembly; elections: election last
held: 31 March 2006
Next Election: not later than March 2011
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Samoan 92.6%, Euronesians 7% (persons of European and Polynesian blood), Europeans 0.4%
| RELIGIONS |
Congregationalist 34.8%, Roman Catholic 19.6%, Methodist 15%, Latter-Day Saints 12.7%, Assembly of God
6.6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3.5%, other Christian 4.5%, Worship Centre 1.3%, other 1.7%, unspecified 0.1%
(2001 census)
6.6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3.5%, other Christian 4.5%, Worship Centre 1.3%, other 1.7%, unspecified 0.1%
(2001 census)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Mix of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy comprised of 11 districts; Legal system is based on
English common law and local customs; judicial review of legislative acts with respect to fundamental rights of the
citizen; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Following the abdication of Chief Tanumafili II MALIETOA, Tuiatua was elected chief by the Legislative
Assembly to serve a five-year term (no term limits); Last election: 18 June 2007; next election June 2012; following
legislative elections, the leader of the majority party is usually appointed prime minister by the chief of state with the
approval of the Legislative Assembly
Legislative: unicameral Legislative Assembly or Fono (49 seats - 47 elected by voters affiliated with traditional
village-based electoral districts, 2 elected by independent, mostly non-Samoan or part-Samoan, voters who cannot,
(or choose not to) establish a village affiliation; only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Fono from the 47
village-based electorates; members serve five-year terms) elections: election last held 31 March 2006 (next election
to be held not later than March 2011)
Judicial: Court of Appeal; Supreme Court; District Court; Land and Titles Court
English common law and local customs; judicial review of legislative acts with respect to fundamental rights of the
citizen; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: Following the abdication of Chief Tanumafili II MALIETOA, Tuiatua was elected chief by the Legislative
Assembly to serve a five-year term (no term limits); Last election: 18 June 2007; next election June 2012; following
legislative elections, the leader of the majority party is usually appointed prime minister by the chief of state with the
approval of the Legislative Assembly
Legislative: unicameral Legislative Assembly or Fono (49 seats - 47 elected by voters affiliated with traditional
village-based electoral districts, 2 elected by independent, mostly non-Samoan or part-Samoan, voters who cannot,
(or choose not to) establish a village affiliation; only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Fono from the 47
village-based electorates; members serve five-year terms) elections: election last held 31 March 2006 (next election
to be held not later than March 2011)
Judicial: Court of Appeal; Supreme Court; District Court; Land and Titles Court
| LANGUAGES |
Samoan (Polynesian), English
| BRIEF HISTORY |
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
The economy of Samoa has traditionally been dependent on development aid, family remittances from overseas,
agriculture, and fishing. The country is vulnerable to devastating storms. Agriculture employs two-thirds of the labor
force and furnishes 90% of exports, featuring coconut cream, coconut oil, and copra. The manufacturing sector
mainly processes agricultural products. One factory in the Foreign Trade Zone employs 3,000 people to make
automobile electrical harnesses for an assembly plant in Australia. Tourism is an expanding sector accounting for
25% of GDP; 122,000 tourists visited the islands in 2007. In late September 2009, an earthquake and the resulting
tsunami severely damaged Samoa, and nearby American Samoa, disrupting transportation and power generation,
and resulting in about 200 deaths. The Samoan Government has called for deregulation of the financial sector,
encouragement of investment, and continued fiscal discipline, while at the same time protecting the environment.
Observers point to the flexibility of the labor market as a basic strength for future economic advances. Foreign
reserves are in a relatively healthy state, the external debt is stable, and inflation is low.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Samoa)
agriculture, and fishing. The country is vulnerable to devastating storms. Agriculture employs two-thirds of the labor
force and furnishes 90% of exports, featuring coconut cream, coconut oil, and copra. The manufacturing sector
mainly processes agricultural products. One factory in the Foreign Trade Zone employs 3,000 people to make
automobile electrical harnesses for an assembly plant in Australia. Tourism is an expanding sector accounting for
25% of GDP; 122,000 tourists visited the islands in 2007. In late September 2009, an earthquake and the resulting
tsunami severely damaged Samoa, and nearby American Samoa, disrupting transportation and power generation,
and resulting in about 200 deaths. The Samoan Government has called for deregulation of the financial sector,
encouragement of investment, and continued fiscal discipline, while at the same time protecting the environment.
Observers point to the flexibility of the labor market as a basic strength for future economic advances. Foreign
reserves are in a relatively healthy state, the external debt is stable, and inflation is low.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Samoa)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
The 1960 Constitution, which formally came into force with independence, is based on the British Westminster
model of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Two of Samoa's four highest
ranking paramount chiefs (Tama a Aiga) at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold
the office of head of state while a third, Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinu'u II, became its first Prime Minister.
Malietoa Tanumafili II held the post of Head of State alone since the death of his colleague, Tupua Tamasese
Mea'ole, in 1963. Tanumafili died in May 2007 and his successor, Tupua Tamasese Tupuola Tufuga Efi was elected
by the legislature for a five-year term in June 2007. At the time the Constitution was adopted it was anticipated that
future Heads of State would be chosen from among the four Tama-a-Aiga 'royal' paramount chiefs. However, this is
not required by the Constitution and for this reason Samoa can be considered a republic rather than a constitutional
monarchy like the United Kingdom. Parliament (the Fono) can also amend the constitution through a simple majority
of votes in the house.
The Samoa system is very hard model of parliamentary democracy where the executive and the legislative arms of
government are fused together. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the head
of state to form a government. The prime minister's preferred cabinet of 12 is appointed and sworn in by the head of
state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono, which since the rise of political parties in Samoa in the 1980s,
is controlled by the party with the majority of members in the Fono (the government).
The unicameral legislature, named the Fono Aoao Faitulafono (National Legislative Assembly) contains 49 members
serving five-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from ethnic Samoan territorial constituencies; the other two are
chosen by the Samoan citizens of non-Samoan origin on a separate electoral roll. Universal suffrage was extended in
1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matai in the
country, about 5% of whom are women.
The third Tamaaiga id Tuimalealiifano who was the deputy Head of State or a member of the Council of Deputies
when Samoa gained its independence in 1962.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Samoa
model of parliamentary democracy, modified to take account of Samoan customs. Two of Samoa's four highest
ranking paramount chiefs (Tama a Aiga) at the time of independence were given lifetime appointments to jointly hold
the office of head of state while a third, Fiame Mata'afa Faumuina Mulinu'u II, became its first Prime Minister.
Malietoa Tanumafili II held the post of Head of State alone since the death of his colleague, Tupua Tamasese
Mea'ole, in 1963. Tanumafili died in May 2007 and his successor, Tupua Tamasese Tupuola Tufuga Efi was elected
by the legislature for a five-year term in June 2007. At the time the Constitution was adopted it was anticipated that
future Heads of State would be chosen from among the four Tama-a-Aiga 'royal' paramount chiefs. However, this is
not required by the Constitution and for this reason Samoa can be considered a republic rather than a constitutional
monarchy like the United Kingdom. Parliament (the Fono) can also amend the constitution through a simple majority
of votes in the house.
The Samoa system is very hard model of parliamentary democracy where the executive and the legislative arms of
government are fused together. The prime minister is chosen by a majority in the Fono and is appointed by the head
of state to form a government. The prime minister's preferred cabinet of 12 is appointed and sworn in by the head of
state, subject to the continuing confidence of the Fono, which since the rise of political parties in Samoa in the 1980s,
is controlled by the party with the majority of members in the Fono (the government).
The unicameral legislature, named the Fono Aoao Faitulafono (National Legislative Assembly) contains 49 members
serving five-year terms. Forty-seven are elected from ethnic Samoan territorial constituencies; the other two are
chosen by the Samoan citizens of non-Samoan origin on a separate electoral roll. Universal suffrage was extended in
1990, but only chiefs (matai) may stand for election to the Samoan seats. There are more than 25,000 matai in the
country, about 5% of whom are women.
The third Tamaaiga id Tuimalealiifano who was the deputy Head of State or a member of the Council of Deputies
when Samoa gained its independence in 1962.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Samoa
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
None reported.
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Samoa
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Samoa is a constitutional parliamentary democracy that incorporates traditional practices into its governmental system. Its
population was approximately 188,000. Executive authority is vested in Head of State Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, elected by
parliament in 2007. The unicameral parliament, elected by universal suffrage, is composed primarily of the heads of extended
families (matai). The most recent parliamentary elections, held in 2006, were marred by charges of bribery. All 10 by-elections
subsequently ordered by the Supreme Court were concluded by 2007 and considered generally free and fair. The ruling Human
Rights Protection Party (HRPP) maintained its majority and continued to be the only officially recognized party in parliament.
Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens. Some problems remained, however, including:
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Samoa is a constitutional parliamentary democracy that incorporates traditional practices into its governmental system. Its
population was approximately 188,000. Executive authority is vested in Head of State Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, elected by
parliament in 2007. The unicameral parliament, elected by universal suffrage, is composed primarily of the heads of extended
families (matai). The most recent parliamentary elections, held in 2006, were marred by charges of bribery. All 10 by-elections
subsequently ordered by the Supreme Court were concluded by 2007 and considered generally free and fair. The ruling Human
Rights Protection Party (HRPP) maintained its majority and continued to be the only officially recognized party in parliament.
Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens. Some problems remained, however, including:
- poor prison conditions,
- local limitations on religious freedom,
- domestic violence,
- sexual abuse of children,
- discrimination against women and non-matai.
27 February 2009
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND REPORTS OF THE
OFFICE OF THE HIGH COMMISSIONER AND THE SECRETARY-GENERAL
The rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities*
Report of the Secretary-General
REPORT ON THE EXPERT MEETING ON INTEGRATION WITH DIVERSITY IN POLICING
Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria, 15-16 January 2008
I. BACKGROUND
1. Following the recommendation of the Working Group on Minorities and the Independent Expert on Minority Issues, the Office
of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in cooperation with the International Labour Office (ILO) and the United
Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as well as the Independent Expert held an expert meeting on integration with
diversity in policing at the Vienna International Centre in Austria from 15 to 16 January 2008. The event was hosted by the Austrian
Government.
2. OHCHR invited 10 professionals from the police service of different regions and countries of the world (Brazil, Cameroon,
Canada, Hungary, India, Ireland, Nigeria, Pakistan, Samoa and South Africa) to participate in the meeting as experts and deliver
presentations focused on sharing of good experiences and lessons learned in relation to inclusion with diversity in policing.
III. SHARING OF GOOD EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS LEARNED
- PRESENTATIONS BY EXPERTS FROM NATIONAL POLICE FORCES
Fiji and Samoa
7. Kasanita Seruvatu, Training Adviser for the Samoa Police Project and former Director of Education and Training of the Fiji
Police, described problems of attracting certain segments of minorities due to unfavourable conditions such as low pay. The
recruitment in the Fiji Police has always been on a percentage basis, taking into account Fijians as the ethnic majority and Indians
as the largest minority. In all police recruitment, the majority intake has consisted of Fijians, followed by Indians and others. The
prospects for minority recruitment had improved when the compulsory height, weight, age and chest size requirements had been
removed from the selection requirements for recruits. In addition, the average age of 18-25 was moved up to 35. While the change
met with a lot of scepticism, it is now well accepted and recruitment is no longer discriminatory against a certain section of the
community, especially those of slight build.
8. Ms. Seruvatu further reported that in 2006, the Commissioner and the Board of Management made another concession intended
to promote integration with diversity. It allowed the Muslims in the Fiji Police Force to grow beards in accordance with their
religious beliefs. Recruitment advertisements are now placed in all ethnic newspapers - Fijian, English, Hindi, and Chinese, in order
to attract all minority groups. Although the Fiji Police has so far been unable to attract any Chinese into the police force, it is
attempting to rectify this by sending a Fijian police officer to mainland China to learn Mandarin for two years to enable him to better
respond to the needs of the Chinese community by removing the language barrier. Ms. Seruvatu also described interesting concepts
of community policing based on traditional chieftain systems in Samoa, and on the connection of the three pillars of culture, church
and government in Fiji, which have proved rather successful as they reach out to all communities and help accelerate integration.
Click here to read more »
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE UNITED NATIONS HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND REPORTS OF THE
OFFICE OF THE HIGH COMMISSIONER AND THE SECRETARY-GENERAL
The rights of persons belonging to national or ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities*
Report of the Secretary-General
REPORT ON THE EXPERT MEETING ON INTEGRATION WITH DIVERSITY IN POLICING
Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria, 15-16 January 2008
I. BACKGROUND
1. Following the recommendation of the Working Group on Minorities and the Independent Expert on Minority Issues, the Office
of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in cooperation with the International Labour Office (ILO) and the United
Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as well as the Independent Expert held an expert meeting on integration with
diversity in policing at the Vienna International Centre in Austria from 15 to 16 January 2008. The event was hosted by the Austrian
Government.
2. OHCHR invited 10 professionals from the police service of different regions and countries of the world (Brazil, Cameroon,
Canada, Hungary, India, Ireland, Nigeria, Pakistan, Samoa and South Africa) to participate in the meeting as experts and deliver
presentations focused on sharing of good experiences and lessons learned in relation to inclusion with diversity in policing.
III. SHARING OF GOOD EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS LEARNED
- PRESENTATIONS BY EXPERTS FROM NATIONAL POLICE FORCES
Fiji and Samoa
7. Kasanita Seruvatu, Training Adviser for the Samoa Police Project and former Director of Education and Training of the Fiji
Police, described problems of attracting certain segments of minorities due to unfavourable conditions such as low pay. The
recruitment in the Fiji Police has always been on a percentage basis, taking into account Fijians as the ethnic majority and Indians
as the largest minority. In all police recruitment, the majority intake has consisted of Fijians, followed by Indians and others. The
prospects for minority recruitment had improved when the compulsory height, weight, age and chest size requirements had been
removed from the selection requirements for recruits. In addition, the average age of 18-25 was moved up to 35. While the change
met with a lot of scepticism, it is now well accepted and recruitment is no longer discriminatory against a certain section of the
community, especially those of slight build.
8. Ms. Seruvatu further reported that in 2006, the Commissioner and the Board of Management made another concession intended
to promote integration with diversity. It allowed the Muslims in the Fiji Police Force to grow beards in accordance with their
religious beliefs. Recruitment advertisements are now placed in all ethnic newspapers - Fijian, English, Hindi, and Chinese, in order
to attract all minority groups. Although the Fiji Police has so far been unable to attract any Chinese into the police force, it is
attempting to rectify this by sending a Fijian police officer to mainland China to learn Mandarin for two years to enable him to better
respond to the needs of the Chinese community by removing the language barrier. Ms. Seruvatu also described interesting concepts
of community policing based on traditional chieftain systems in Samoa, and on the connection of the three pillars of culture, church
and government in Fiji, which have proved rather successful as they reach out to all communities and help accelerate integration.
Click here to read more »
FREEDOM IN THE WORLD REPORT- 2009
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 2
Status: Free
Overview
In January 2008, Samoa’s Chamber of Commerce elected a woman to lead the organization for the first time. Debate over the
powers of traditional chiefs continued throughout the year, and the legislature introduced a controversial bill in April that would
allow chiefs to register customary lands under their names.
In May 2007, Samoa’s head of state, Malietoa Tanumafili II, died at age 94, after serving 45 years; he had been appointed for life at
independence. The legislature elected in June former prime minister Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi to serve a five-year term as the
new head of state.
Debate continued throughout 2008 over the role and powers of village chiefs. Matai, or chiefs of extended families, control local
government and churches through the village fono, or legislature, which is open only to them. Many provide leadership and help
their communities to solve conflicts, but abuse of power and excessive punishment also occur. For example, in August 2008 a
woman accused of adultery was banished from her village along with her five children. In April 2008, the legislature introduced the
Land Titles Registration bill that would allow matai to register customary land under their names. Critics argued, however, that this
could spark violence and conflict.
In January 2008, Samoa’s Chamber of Commerce elected a woman to lead the organization for the first time. In June 2008, female
parliamentarians formed a Commonwealth Women’s Parliamentarian Association to support greater participation of women in
Somoan politics.
Samoa is an electoral democracy. The 2006 legislative elections were deemed free and fair. Before universal suffrage was
implemented in 1990, only the matai could vote. Executive authority is vested in the head of state, who is elected for five-year
terms by the Legislative Assembly. The head of state appoints the prime minister, who leads the government and names his own
cabinet. All laws passed by the 49-member, unicameral Legislative Assembly must receive approval from the head of state to take
effect. Although candidates are free to propose themselves for electoral office, the approval of the matai is essential. Two legislative
seats are reserved for at-large voters, mostly citizens of mixed or non-Samoan heritage who have no ties to the 47 village-based
constituencies. All lawmakers serve five-year terms. The main political parties are the HRPP and the SDUP.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 2
Status: Free
Overview
In January 2008, Samoa’s Chamber of Commerce elected a woman to lead the organization for the first time. Debate over the
powers of traditional chiefs continued throughout the year, and the legislature introduced a controversial bill in April that would
allow chiefs to register customary lands under their names.
In May 2007, Samoa’s head of state, Malietoa Tanumafili II, died at age 94, after serving 45 years; he had been appointed for life at
independence. The legislature elected in June former prime minister Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi to serve a five-year term as the
new head of state.
Debate continued throughout 2008 over the role and powers of village chiefs. Matai, or chiefs of extended families, control local
government and churches through the village fono, or legislature, which is open only to them. Many provide leadership and help
their communities to solve conflicts, but abuse of power and excessive punishment also occur. For example, in August 2008 a
woman accused of adultery was banished from her village along with her five children. In April 2008, the legislature introduced the
Land Titles Registration bill that would allow matai to register customary land under their names. Critics argued, however, that this
could spark violence and conflict.
In January 2008, Samoa’s Chamber of Commerce elected a woman to lead the organization for the first time. In June 2008, female
parliamentarians formed a Commonwealth Women’s Parliamentarian Association to support greater participation of women in
Somoan politics.
Samoa is an electoral democracy. The 2006 legislative elections were deemed free and fair. Before universal suffrage was
implemented in 1990, only the matai could vote. Executive authority is vested in the head of state, who is elected for five-year
terms by the Legislative Assembly. The head of state appoints the prime minister, who leads the government and names his own
cabinet. All laws passed by the 49-member, unicameral Legislative Assembly must receive approval from the head of state to take
effect. Although candidates are free to propose themselves for electoral office, the approval of the matai is essential. Two legislative
seats are reserved for at-large voters, mostly citizens of mixed or non-Samoan heritage who have no ties to the 47 village-based
constituencies. All lawmakers serve five-year terms. The main political parties are the HRPP and the SDUP.
Click here to read more »
Samoa acknowledged for abolishing death penalty.
PAC - Pacific Islands Broadcasting Association
| June 06, 2005 |
Amnesty International has recognised Samoa as one of the countries that abolished the death penalty in 2004 and the Independent
State has been praised by the human rights organisation along with 83 other countries.
In its annual worldwide report, "The death penalty worldwide: developments in 2004" released last month, Amnesty said the world
continues to move closer to the universal abolition of capital punishment.
And by the end of 2004, 84 countries had abolished the death penalty for all crimes, with 12 countries abolishing it for all but
exceptional crimes, such as wartime crimes. .
Click here to read more »
PAC - Pacific Islands Broadcasting Association
| June 06, 2005 |
Amnesty International has recognised Samoa as one of the countries that abolished the death penalty in 2004 and the Independent
State has been praised by the human rights organisation along with 83 other countries.
In its annual worldwide report, "The death penalty worldwide: developments in 2004" released last month, Amnesty said the world
continues to move closer to the universal abolition of capital punishment.
And by the end of 2004, 84 countries had abolished the death penalty for all crimes, with 12 countries abolishing it for all but
exceptional crimes, such as wartime crimes. .
Click here to read more »
Samoa Landmine Monitor Report 2000
Samoa signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 3 December 1997 and ratified on 23 July 1998. Samoa's Article 7 transparency report was
due on 27 August 1999, but has not been submitted yet. Samoa is not believed to have enacted domestic implementing legislation.
Samoa did not attend the First Meeting of States Parties in Maputo, and has not participated in intersessional meetings. Samoa voted
in favor of UNGA Resolution 54/54B in support of the ban treaty in December 1999. It also supported the 1996, 1997 and 1998
UNGA landmine resolutions.
Click here to read more »
Samoa signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 3 December 1997 and ratified on 23 July 1998. Samoa's Article 7 transparency report was
due on 27 August 1999, but has not been submitted yet. Samoa is not believed to have enacted domestic implementing legislation.
Samoa did not attend the First Meeting of States Parties in Maputo, and has not participated in intersessional meetings. Samoa voted
in favor of UNGA Resolution 54/54B in support of the ban treaty in December 1999. It also supported the 1996, 1997 and 1998
UNGA landmine resolutions.
Click here to read more »
STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE TUILA'EPA LUPESOLIAI SAILELE MALIELEGAOI
PRIME MINISTER OF THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA
AT THE SIXTY-FOURTH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
New York, 26 September 2009
Mr. President,
The costs in human suffering and social upheaval of these crises have been considerable and have justifiably required the collective
and concerted global action that now seem to work with a good degree of success. In such context, these crises are imminently
solvable and short term, when compared to the great and grave threat the world faces in environment degradation and climate change.
This week's summit of AOSIS and the Secretary General's high level meeting both underscored the predominance and urgency of the
climate change challenge. And their core messages were unambiguous. Climate change is not a future phenomenon. It is real and
already occurring in Pacific countries and low-lying islands elsewhere. It is no longer a question of when, but rather the severity of
the magnitude of the impacts and the full cost to society.
Climate change is not a small island developing states concern only. Our vulnerability to climate change should not absolve those
responsible for its causes then, and now. Nor should it be used to shift the burden of leadership and responsibility away from the main
carbon emitters. Developed and emerging economies will all be affected one way or another. Sadly, the human and financial costs will
be borne disproportionately by small island developing states.
Samoa will graduate from the LDC list in December 2010. The intervention of the financial crisis was unknown and not taken into
account when the decision was made to progress Samoa to the transitional period. An extension of the transitional period is therefore
both necessary and justified.
The UN peacekeeping operations around the world have brought relief and hope to victims in conflict areas. Samoan civilian police
officers are presently serving in 3 peacekeeping missions side by side with officers from other member states.
In our region, Samoa also contributes to the Pacific Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands under the umbrella of the Pacific
Islands Forum.
Click here to read more »
PRIME MINISTER OF THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA
AT THE SIXTY-FOURTH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
New York, 26 September 2009
Mr. President,
The costs in human suffering and social upheaval of these crises have been considerable and have justifiably required the collective
and concerted global action that now seem to work with a good degree of success. In such context, these crises are imminently
solvable and short term, when compared to the great and grave threat the world faces in environment degradation and climate change.
This week's summit of AOSIS and the Secretary General's high level meeting both underscored the predominance and urgency of the
climate change challenge. And their core messages were unambiguous. Climate change is not a future phenomenon. It is real and
already occurring in Pacific countries and low-lying islands elsewhere. It is no longer a question of when, but rather the severity of
the magnitude of the impacts and the full cost to society.
Climate change is not a small island developing states concern only. Our vulnerability to climate change should not absolve those
responsible for its causes then, and now. Nor should it be used to shift the burden of leadership and responsibility away from the main
carbon emitters. Developed and emerging economies will all be affected one way or another. Sadly, the human and financial costs will
be borne disproportionately by small island developing states.
Samoa will graduate from the LDC list in December 2010. The intervention of the financial crisis was unknown and not taken into
account when the decision was made to progress Samoa to the transitional period. An extension of the transitional period is therefore
both necessary and justified.
The UN peacekeeping operations around the world have brought relief and hope to victims in conflict areas. Samoan civilian police
officers are presently serving in 3 peacekeeping missions side by side with officers from other member states.
In our region, Samoa also contributes to the Pacific Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands under the umbrella of the Pacific
Islands Forum.
Click here to read more »
PEN raises concern with Samoa’s Ombudsman
Written by Savea Sano Malifa
Thursday, 13 November 2008 15:44
The human rights and press freedom watchdog organisation PEN International has expressed serious concern over reports of press
freedom violation in Samoa.
Related to the Commission of Inquiry into alleged gun smuggling involving the police commissioner, the reports say the media was
being effectively gagged by conditions meted out by the chairman of the inquiry, Ombudsman Maiava Iulai Toma.
In a letter to Maiava expressing his organisation’s concern, Wellington-based PEN International Representative Dr Nelson Wattie is
direct:
“It appears that you, Sir, acting as the Chairman of a public Commission of Inquiry into allegations against the Commissioner of
Police, issued a directive to the media instructing them to confine their reports to the contents of the inquiry’s press release.
“While the press release itself may be discussed, no other matter relating to the inquiry is open to discussion.
“Specifically, your directive states that ‘media may not report or comment upon or provide any details of evidence, witnesses,
submissions or any other detail of or information from the hearings or the proceedings of the Commission outside of or beyond that
provided in the press release from the Counsel Assisting.’”
Dr Wattie also refers to another report saying the Samoa Observer has boycotted the inquiry’s proceedings as a result of stiff
directives handed down on media coverage.
He writes: “In a second report we observe with concern that the Samoa Observer has stopped reporting on a Commission of
Inquiry into gun smuggling because of restrictions on media freedom.
“The report remarks that ‘the Observer’s editor Mata’afa Keni Ramese Lesa says the restrictions set for the local and international
media by the commission is a violation of the media’s freedom to report freely the public inquiry.’”
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Written by Savea Sano Malifa
Thursday, 13 November 2008 15:44
The human rights and press freedom watchdog organisation PEN International has expressed serious concern over reports of press
freedom violation in Samoa.
Related to the Commission of Inquiry into alleged gun smuggling involving the police commissioner, the reports say the media was
being effectively gagged by conditions meted out by the chairman of the inquiry, Ombudsman Maiava Iulai Toma.
In a letter to Maiava expressing his organisation’s concern, Wellington-based PEN International Representative Dr Nelson Wattie is
direct:
“It appears that you, Sir, acting as the Chairman of a public Commission of Inquiry into allegations against the Commissioner of
Police, issued a directive to the media instructing them to confine their reports to the contents of the inquiry’s press release.
“While the press release itself may be discussed, no other matter relating to the inquiry is open to discussion.
“Specifically, your directive states that ‘media may not report or comment upon or provide any details of evidence, witnesses,
submissions or any other detail of or information from the hearings or the proceedings of the Commission outside of or beyond that
provided in the press release from the Counsel Assisting.’”
Dr Wattie also refers to another report saying the Samoa Observer has boycotted the inquiry’s proceedings as a result of stiff
directives handed down on media coverage.
He writes: “In a second report we observe with concern that the Samoa Observer has stopped reporting on a Commission of
Inquiry into gun smuggling because of restrictions on media freedom.
“The report remarks that ‘the Observer’s editor Mata’afa Keni Ramese Lesa says the restrictions set for the local and international
media by the commission is a violation of the media’s freedom to report freely the public inquiry.’”
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2009
TOGETHER SAMOA DONATES $3,000 to HELP SAMOA DISASTER RELIEF COALITION EFFORTS
(CARSON, CA) - Together Samoa, a group of young Samoan Americans formed with the mission of supporting tsunami relief
efforts through selling custom wristbands, has donated a total of $3,000 to the Help Samoa Disaster Relief Coalition (Help Samoa)
to aid in their second and third shipment of disaster relief items to Samoa and American Samoa.
The check was presented by Nemaia Satele, founder of Together Samoa, to Pat Luce, Executive Director of the National Office of
Samoan Affairs and Co-Chair of Help Samoa.
Together Samoa’s donation to Help Samoa was generated through people’s purchase of $2 wristbands, with 100% of proceeds
donated to tsunami relief efforts. The money will be used to purchase much needed items to the islands including building materials,
and also offset shipping/transportation costs to Samoa and American Samoa.
Help Samoa’s third shipment will leave to Samoa and American Samoa today and arrive in the islands in early December. Items in
these containers will be distributed through Help Samoa’s partner non-governmental organizations, Native American Samoa
Advisory Council (NASAC) in American Samoa, and Samoa Umbrella of Non-Governmental Organizations (SUNGO) and Pan
Pacific and Southeast Asia Women’s Association (PPSEAWA) in Samoa. Help Samoa has already sent a total of twenty containers
packed with food, water, clothing, diapers and medical supplies to the islands.
“Together Samoa’s donation to Help Samoa is really a testament to the entire Samoan community in the United States. We are
particularly grateful to youth, who have whole-heartedly taken on Together Samoa’s mission and fundraised in their communities,
purchased wristbands, and advocated on behalf of the tsunami relief efforts underway,” said Nemaia Satele. “Two dollars for a
wristband may not seem like a lot, but has made a profound impact on healing our homeland. We are humbled and grateful for
everyone’s purchase.”
Pat Luce concluded, “We are thankful for the generosity of the Together Samoa organization as a coalition partner. Together
Samoa is a fine example of young promising community leaders."
Together Samoa was founded on the premise of giving young people and others the opportunity to participate in tsunami relief
efforts, and to symbolically unify those living outside of the islands around rebuilding efforts.
Together Samoa will continue to sell wristbands, which say “Together Samoa” and “One Love * One Goal.” Future proceeds will
go towards supporting education efforts for schools in Samoa and American Samoa damaged by the tsunami.
Click here to read more »
November 16, 2009
TOGETHER SAMOA DONATES $3,000 to HELP SAMOA DISASTER RELIEF COALITION EFFORTS
(CARSON, CA) - Together Samoa, a group of young Samoan Americans formed with the mission of supporting tsunami relief
efforts through selling custom wristbands, has donated a total of $3,000 to the Help Samoa Disaster Relief Coalition (Help Samoa)
to aid in their second and third shipment of disaster relief items to Samoa and American Samoa.
The check was presented by Nemaia Satele, founder of Together Samoa, to Pat Luce, Executive Director of the National Office of
Samoan Affairs and Co-Chair of Help Samoa.
Together Samoa’s donation to Help Samoa was generated through people’s purchase of $2 wristbands, with 100% of proceeds
donated to tsunami relief efforts. The money will be used to purchase much needed items to the islands including building materials,
and also offset shipping/transportation costs to Samoa and American Samoa.
Help Samoa’s third shipment will leave to Samoa and American Samoa today and arrive in the islands in early December. Items in
these containers will be distributed through Help Samoa’s partner non-governmental organizations, Native American Samoa
Advisory Council (NASAC) in American Samoa, and Samoa Umbrella of Non-Governmental Organizations (SUNGO) and Pan
Pacific and Southeast Asia Women’s Association (PPSEAWA) in Samoa. Help Samoa has already sent a total of twenty containers
packed with food, water, clothing, diapers and medical supplies to the islands.
“Together Samoa’s donation to Help Samoa is really a testament to the entire Samoan community in the United States. We are
particularly grateful to youth, who have whole-heartedly taken on Together Samoa’s mission and fundraised in their communities,
purchased wristbands, and advocated on behalf of the tsunami relief efforts underway,” said Nemaia Satele. “Two dollars for a
wristband may not seem like a lot, but has made a profound impact on healing our homeland. We are humbled and grateful for
everyone’s purchase.”
Pat Luce concluded, “We are thankful for the generosity of the Together Samoa organization as a coalition partner. Together
Samoa is a fine example of young promising community leaders."
Together Samoa was founded on the premise of giving young people and others the opportunity to participate in tsunami relief
efforts, and to symbolically unify those living outside of the islands around rebuilding efforts.
Together Samoa will continue to sell wristbands, which say “Together Samoa” and “One Love * One Goal.” Future proceeds will
go towards supporting education efforts for schools in Samoa and American Samoa damaged by the tsunami.
Click here to read more »
Samoa is a group of islands (formed about 7 million years ago) in the Pacific Ocean, roughly 15 degrees south of the
equator and some 8 degrees east of the International Dateline, that is about 1700 miles north east of New Zealand. It
is made up of nine islands. The two largest Savai'i and Upolu, account for most of population with only two others,
Manono and Apolima, being inhabited. The other five are called Fanuatapu, Namu'a, Nuutele, Nuulua, Nuusafee.
The history of Samoa began when immigrants from the Lau Islands in eastern Fiji arrived in the Samoan islands
approximately 3500 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia. There is evidence to suggest they
travelled as far as South America. By 200 BC Samoa was the center of a flourishing Polynesian community with
trade taking place between Tonga, Fiji and Samoa. In about 1300 AD a group of settlers from Samoa colonised the
Tokelau islands, explaining the similarity between the two languages. Dutchman, Jacob Roggeveen, was the first
European to sight the islands, in 1722. Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, French explorer, named the islands the
Navigator Islands in 1768, after encountering Samoans in ocean-going canoes. In 1787, the French ship La Perouse
landed on Tutuila and a shore crew were attacked, leading to the death of 12 people. This event was captured by
the French artist Nicholas Ozanne. John Williams and Charles Barf, two missionaries from the London Missionary
Society, arrived at Samoa in 1830 and were responsible for the introduction of Christianity and destruction of the
traditional Samoan religion. In 1857 J.C. Godeffroy and Son (taken over by German Trading and Plantation
Company when their business failed) a German company founded their depot in Apia, a move which lead to Samoa
becoming the most popular trading post in the Pacific at that time. Halfway through the 19th century, the United
Kingdom, Germany and the United States all claimed parts of the kingdom of Samoa, and established trade posts.
King Malietoa Laupepa died in 1898 and was succeeded by Malietoa Tooa Mataafa. The US and British consuls
supported Malietoa Tanu, Laupepa's son. US and British warships, including USS Philadelphia shelled Apia on
March 15, 1899. In the Samoa Tripartite Convention, a joint commission of three members, Bartlett Tripp for the
United States, C. N. E. Eliot, C.B. for Great Britain, and Freiherr Speck von Sternberg for Germany, agreed to
divide the islands. Germany received the western part, (later known as Western Samoa), containing Upolu and
Savaii (the current Samoa) and other adjoining islands. These islands became known as German Samoa. The US
accepted Tutuila and Manu'a, which comprise a territory of the US known as American Samoa. In exchange for
Britain ceding claims in Samoa, Germany transferred their protectorates in the North Solomon Islands. The
monarchy was disestablished. From 1908, with the establishment of the Mau movement ("opinion") movement,
Western Samoans began to assert their claim to independence. Shortly after the outbreak of World War I, in August
1914, New Zealand sent an expeditionary force to seize and occupy German Samoa. Although Germany refused to
officially surrender the islands, no resistance was offered and the occupation took place without any fighting. New
Zealand continued the occupation of Western Samoa throughout World War I. In 1919, under the Treaty of
Versailles, Germany dropped its claims to the islands. New Zealand administered Western Samoa first as a League
of Nations Mandate and then as a United Nations trusteeship until the country received its independence on January
1, 1962 as Western Samoa as Chief Tanumafili II MALIETOA was made co-chief of state from 1 January 1962
until becoming sole chief of state 5 April 1963.Samoa was the first Polynesian nation to reestablish independence in
the 20th century.In July 1997 the constitution was amended to change the country's name from "Western Samoa" to
"Samoa." Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The
neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own
Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms "Western Samoa" and "Western Samoans." In 2002, New
Zealand's prime minister Helen Clark formally apologised for two incidents during the period of New Zealand's
administration: a failure to quarantine an influenza-carrying ship in 1919, leading to an epidemic which devastated the
Samoan population, and the shooting of leaders of the nonviolent Mau movement during a ceremonial procession in
1926. Samoa's rugby union team has achieved some notable successes, particularly in the sevens version of the
game. Chief Tanumafili II Malietoa abdicated as a result of poor health and Chief Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi was
elected by the Legislative Assembly on 18 June 2007 to serve a five-year term ending heredity ascension of the Chef
of State.
Sources: Wikipedia: History of Samoa ; Samoan Sensation ; CIA World Factbook (select Samoa)
equator and some 8 degrees east of the International Dateline, that is about 1700 miles north east of New Zealand. It
is made up of nine islands. The two largest Savai'i and Upolu, account for most of population with only two others,
Manono and Apolima, being inhabited. The other five are called Fanuatapu, Namu'a, Nuutele, Nuulua, Nuusafee.
The history of Samoa began when immigrants from the Lau Islands in eastern Fiji arrived in the Samoan islands
approximately 3500 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia. There is evidence to suggest they
travelled as far as South America. By 200 BC Samoa was the center of a flourishing Polynesian community with
trade taking place between Tonga, Fiji and Samoa. In about 1300 AD a group of settlers from Samoa colonised the
Tokelau islands, explaining the similarity between the two languages. Dutchman, Jacob Roggeveen, was the first
European to sight the islands, in 1722. Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, French explorer, named the islands the
Navigator Islands in 1768, after encountering Samoans in ocean-going canoes. In 1787, the French ship La Perouse
landed on Tutuila and a shore crew were attacked, leading to the death of 12 people. This event was captured by
the French artist Nicholas Ozanne. John Williams and Charles Barf, two missionaries from the London Missionary
Society, arrived at Samoa in 1830 and were responsible for the introduction of Christianity and destruction of the
traditional Samoan religion. In 1857 J.C. Godeffroy and Son (taken over by German Trading and Plantation
Company when their business failed) a German company founded their depot in Apia, a move which lead to Samoa
becoming the most popular trading post in the Pacific at that time. Halfway through the 19th century, the United
Kingdom, Germany and the United States all claimed parts of the kingdom of Samoa, and established trade posts.
King Malietoa Laupepa died in 1898 and was succeeded by Malietoa Tooa Mataafa. The US and British consuls
supported Malietoa Tanu, Laupepa's son. US and British warships, including USS Philadelphia shelled Apia on
March 15, 1899. In the Samoa Tripartite Convention, a joint commission of three members, Bartlett Tripp for the
United States, C. N. E. Eliot, C.B. for Great Britain, and Freiherr Speck von Sternberg for Germany, agreed to
divide the islands. Germany received the western part, (later known as Western Samoa), containing Upolu and
Savaii (the current Samoa) and other adjoining islands. These islands became known as German Samoa. The US
accepted Tutuila and Manu'a, which comprise a territory of the US known as American Samoa. In exchange for
Britain ceding claims in Samoa, Germany transferred their protectorates in the North Solomon Islands. The
monarchy was disestablished. From 1908, with the establishment of the Mau movement ("opinion") movement,
Western Samoans began to assert their claim to independence. Shortly after the outbreak of World War I, in August
1914, New Zealand sent an expeditionary force to seize and occupy German Samoa. Although Germany refused to
officially surrender the islands, no resistance was offered and the occupation took place without any fighting. New
Zealand continued the occupation of Western Samoa throughout World War I. In 1919, under the Treaty of
Versailles, Germany dropped its claims to the islands. New Zealand administered Western Samoa first as a League
of Nations Mandate and then as a United Nations trusteeship until the country received its independence on January
1, 1962 as Western Samoa as Chief Tanumafili II MALIETOA was made co-chief of state from 1 January 1962
until becoming sole chief of state 5 April 1963.Samoa was the first Polynesian nation to reestablish independence in
the 20th century.In July 1997 the constitution was amended to change the country's name from "Western Samoa" to
"Samoa." Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The
neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own
Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms "Western Samoa" and "Western Samoans." In 2002, New
Zealand's prime minister Helen Clark formally apologised for two incidents during the period of New Zealand's
administration: a failure to quarantine an influenza-carrying ship in 1919, leading to an epidemic which devastated the
Samoan population, and the shooting of leaders of the nonviolent Mau movement during a ceremonial procession in
1926. Samoa's rugby union team has achieved some notable successes, particularly in the sevens version of the
game. Chief Tanumafili II Malietoa abdicated as a result of poor health and Chief Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi was
elected by the Legislative Assembly on 18 June 2007 to serve a five-year term ending heredity ascension of the Chef
of State.
Sources: Wikipedia: History of Samoa ; Samoan Sensation ; CIA World Factbook (select Samoa)
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Click on flag for Country Report
Misa Telefoni Retzlaff
Deputy Prime Minister since 2001
Deputy Prime Minister since 2001
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.