American Samoa Country Report

American Samoa is an unincorporated and unorganized territory of the United States of America. Comprised of five islands and two atolls, most of the population lives on the main island of Tutuila. Despite association with the US, the territory has its own immigration policies and manages its borders. Due to traditional practices, the political environment is more non-partisan than other areas of the US, the government is stable, and power transitions typically occur smoothly. However, corruption remains a concern, with former government leaders and police officers accused of various schemes for personal profit in recent years.

Criminal activity is low in American Samoa. However, petty theft can occur in main towns, especially Pago Pago and surrounding areas, and other sites where tourists frequently travel. Criminals can target foreign nationals. Violent assaults and killings are rare in American Samoa, but can occur, particularly at night and near entertainment venues. Kidnappings also infrequently occur, though underreporting of incidents is likely, particularly among the local population. Protests can occasionally occur, but most events remain small and do not often trigger widespread disruptions. The territory is not considered threaten by international terror groups.

The country is susceptible to storm systems and earthquakes due to its location in the South Pacific Ocean. Storms are more common during the tropical cyclone season between November and April, but severe weather affects the territory at other times of the year. The territory experiences earthquakes of varying intensities. Large offshore earthquakes can trigger tsunamis.

There are few security threats that will affect travelers to American Samoa. Criminal activity is low. Protests can occur, but typically do not lead to significant disruptions for the public. The threat of terrorist attacks, armed conflict, and kidnapping are also low.

Infrastructure is generally adequate in urban areas, especially the capital of Pago Pago and the island of Tutuila. Roadways in urban areas tend to be paved, though roads in rural areas are usually of lower quality. Transport services are limited, with some public bus services and no train services. Rental cars are available in major areas of the territory. Shuttle services operate from most hotels and attractions. While Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) is the main airport in the territory, other notable airports are Ofu (OFU) and Fitiuta (FTI) domestic airports.

Water and electricity access, as well as internet connectivity are not significant concerns.

American Samoa has a tropical climate which can generally be characterized as hot, humid, and rainy. The heaviest rainfall is likely during the rainy season December-March; however, downpours can occur year round. There is relatively little temperature variation between seasons. Tropical storms can impact the islands during the South Pacific tropical cyclone season which typically runs November-April. The country is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences earthquakes of varying intensity. Large offshore earthquakes can trigger tsunamis.

Medical care is limited in American Samoa but is generally adequate for routine medical treatment. Serious injuries or cases typically require evacuation to the United States. There is also a problem with pharmaceutical availability in the country and some prescription drugs may be difficult to acquire. Outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases including dengue, chikungunya and Zika do periodically occur. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

American Samoa maintains a commonwealth government with a fair level of stability, characterized by a representative democratic system led by a governor as head of government and a President as ceremonial head of state. Legislative power resides in the American Samoa Fono, composed of a House of Representatives and a Senate. The region's regulatory frameworks are well-established, with strong enforcement and a high degree of transparency in public institutions, resulting in a low risk of corruption. The judiciary, including the High Court, operates effectively and independently, contributing to the fair enforcement of the rule of law. The territory is also not subject to any active international sanctions.