Samoa Country Report

Unlike many of its neighbors in the Pacific, Samoa has experienced relative political stability since independence. However, corruption in both the public and private sectors poses a concern, albeit on a smaller scale compared to neighboring Pacific island countries, and rule of law is also occasionally ignored.

Levels of serious criminal activity are relatively low in the country but there are concerns regarding incidents of petty theft, particularly targetting foreign travelers. There have also been a number of assaults against travelers, particularly in Apia at night.

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 the country can be affected by severe weather at other times of the year. The level of impact may be heightened due to the lack of funds to fully implement the government's preparedness and recovery programs. Medical care is extremely limited in the country and some prescription pharmaceuticals may not be available.

Levels of serious criminal activity are relatively low in the country but there are concerns regarding incidents of petty theft, many of which have targetted foreign travelers. There have also been a number of assaults against travelers, particularly in Apia at night.

There are no major concerns over air travel.

There are no major concerns over land travel.

Utilities are good.

The ports are considered efficient.

The country is considered both an unlikely sponsor of and unlikely target for cyber attacks.

Samoa 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-April but the country can be affected by severe weather at other times of the year. The country is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences earthquakes of varying intensity. Large offshore earthquakes can trigger tsunamis and the country has previously been hit by large waves.

Medical care is limited in Samoa and serious injuries or cases typically require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. There is also a problem with pharmaceutical availability in the country and some prescription drugs may be difficult to acquire. Although generally localized, outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases including dengue, chikungunya and Zika do periodically occur, particularly during the wet season. There is also a risk from water and food-borne diseases.

Samoa has enjoyed significant political stability since independence in 1962. There are no credible threats to the current government. However, corruption in both the public and private sectors is a concern, albeit on a smaller scale compared to neighboring Pacific countries. The rule of law is also occasionally ignored.